Caprylic acid

Definition

Caprylic acid is the common name for octanoic acid. It is a saturated fatty acid found naturally in multiple mammal milks, particularly goat’s milk, coconut oil, and palm kernel oil. It is used in the production of flavourings and as an antibacterial.

Health considerations

Caprylic acid has antibacterial properties against certain types of bacteria. Animal tests showed it to effectively improve resistance against enterocolitis and to combat the growth of damaging bacteria in the gut microbiome. Caprylic acid is used medically as a medium chain triglyceride, an easily digested fat for patients with issues with absorption.

May be found in

Goat’s milk, cow’s milk, coconut oil, coconut, palm kernel oil

References

Veterinary Microbiology
International Journal of Food Microbiology
Sigma-Aldrich
Sigma-Aldrich 2
Pure and Applied Chemistry

Alternative Spellings and Names

Octanoic acid