What Is Omega 9, Erucic Acid (22:1 n-9) & What Foods Can I Find It In?

Erucic acid, identified as 22:1 n-9, is a monounsaturated omega fatty acid. It is produced through the elongation of oleic acid.

This long-chain fatty acid breaks down into shorter-chain fatty acids in our liver.

The primary source of erucic acid is the seeds of the oilseed rape plant, commonly used for human consumption in the form of canola oil.

Erucic Acid: Not Essential, But Notable

Erucic acid, often referred to as 22:1 n-9, is a unique monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid.

While the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids typically take the spotlight as essential components of our diets, the story of omega-9 deserves recognition as well.

Unlike its essential counterparts, omega-9 fatty acids are not considered essential in our daily intake.

These remarkable molecules are synthesized within our bodies from unsaturated fats, making them versatile contributors to our overall health.

Understanding the distinctive role they play in our well-being adds another layer to the intricate puzzle of nutrition.

This is because omega-9 can be synthesized within the body from unsaturated fats.

Erucic Acid in Food

Erucic acid is naturally found in rapeseed, wallflower seed, and mustard seed. It's considered a contaminant sometimes present in vegetable oils.

This contamination can occur during the processing or storage of plant or animal-derived oils and fats.

For most people, there's no safety concern as long as it's not overconsumed. However, high consumption of this substance, especially by children, poses a long-term health risk.

Discovering Erucic Acid in Foods

Erucic Acid (22:1 n-9) is primarily found in products such as sausages, luncheon meat, pork, dairy, eggs, and various baked goods.

Examples of food sources include

• Beef Frankfurter
• Breakfast Beef Sausage
• Turkey Sausage
• Italian Pork Sausage
• Chorizo
• Cured Bacon
• Butter

Find Erucic Acid in Foods with Our Nutrition Tool

Explore our regularly updated top-ranked lists of foods containing erucic acid and over 200+ nutrients in our nutrition tool.

If you want to know more about foods rich in Erucic acid, we recommend using our tool to access a top-ranked list.

Sara Niemelä

co-founder Care Omnia, Head Content Creator

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.