What Is Pentadecanoic Acid (15:0) & What Foods Can I Find It In?

3D-model of Pentadecanoic acid (15:0) (src)

Pentadecanoic acid, 15:0, also known as Pentadecylic acid or Pentadecylate, is an odd-chain and a long-chain saturated fatty acid.

Pentadecanoic acid offers several health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and potential positive effects on blood sugar levels due to its non-impact on insulin levels.

Table of Contents

A Common Odd-Chain Fatty Acid

Pentadecanoic acid, 15:0, is a saturated fatty acid (source ). While one of the most common odd-chain fatty acids, it remains quite rare in nature (source ).

You can find it in milk and ruminant meat (source ).

Since pentadecanoic acid is primarily found in animal-based foods, there is a suggestion to add it to beverages like plant-based milks and various foods.

Additionally, pentadecanoic acid has applications in the production of cosmetic products and lubricants.

We Need Pentadecanoic Acid

Pentadecanoic acid is present in foods that have been considered unhealthy for the last 40 years, such as saturated fats.

Recent research in 2020 indicates potential protective effects against cholesterol levels and heart disease (source ).

Benefits Of Pentadecanoic Acid

Pentadecanoic acid acts as an anti-inflammatory and may support blood sugar regulation.

In laboratory settings, pure pentadecanoic acid has shown a direct lowering of the risk of type-2 diabetes and heart disease.

It also demonstrated reduced inflammation and tissue scarring in human cells with chronic inflammation, immune disorders, and fibrosis.

Research Shows More Benefits

Research suggests potential benefits of pentadecanoic acid in weight loss, and it has been used to treat various conditions like hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, asthma, and more.

Pentadecanoic acid has also shown positive effects on brain health, potentially preventing Alzheimer’s disease and other cognitive disorders. Additionally, it has been useful in treating fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis.

Pentadecanoic Acid for Men

Pentadecanoic acid supports men’s sexual health, particularly prostate health. It helps relax blood vessels, stimulates blood flow, and supports healthy prostate function.

Foods You Can Find Pentadecanoic Acid (15:0) In

Butter on a tray with a knife
You can find Pentadecanoic Acid in butter

You can find Pentadecanoic Acid (15:0) mostly in dairy and egg products, fats and oils, lamb, veal, game, and beef.

Examples of food sources include

Foods in Our Nutrition Tool

For regularly updated top-ranked lists of foods for over 200+ nutrients, visit our nutrition tool. Explore our top-ranked list of foods containing Pentadecanoic Acid (15:0).

Sara Niemelä

co-founder Care Omnia, Head Content Creator

Author Image of Sara Niemelä

Nutrition is my passion. I've spent thousands upon thousands of hours reading, analyzing, categorizing and comparing research studies.

I’m a wife and a mother of three. I enjoy the outdoors, cooking, and spending time with my family.