What Is Linolenelaidic Acid (18:3 t) & What Foods Can I Find It In?
Linolenelaidic acid, also known as 18:3 t, is a polyunsaturated trans fatty acid and is the trans-isomer of Linolenic acid.
It belongs to the class of organic compounds known as linoleic acids and derivatives.
This unique fatty acid is recognized for its remarkable insolubility in water and its relatively neutral nature.
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Unlocking the Trans-Isomer of Linolenic Acid
18:3 t is scientifically identified as linolenelaidic acid or linolenelaidate. It represents the trans-isomer counterpart of linolenic acid 18:3. (source ◳)
Isomers, like 18:3 t, are compounds that share identical chemical formulas but differ in their structural arrangements.
The cis-isomer indicates that functional groups are located on the same side of the carbon chain, whereas the trans-isomer indicates that these groups are situated on opposing sides of the carbon chain. (source ◳)
Linolenelaidic Acid's Connection to Inflammation
Linolenelaidic acid has been identified as a pro-inflammatory agent, which means it has properties that can promote inflammation in the body.
However, the intriguing aspect of this fatty acid is that its effects are balanced by the presence of cis-isomers.
When the proportion of cis-isomers increases, the anti-inflammatory activity rises, making it a fascinating subject of study in the field of nutrition and health.
Foods Featuring Linolenelaidic Acid (18:3 t)
Linolenelaidic Acid (18:3 t) is predominantly found in dairy and egg products, as well as in sausages and luncheon meat.
Some food examples include:
Explore Further with Our Nutrition Tool
Our nutrition tool offers regularly updated top-ranked food lists for over 200+ nutrients.
Although there are only a few foods featuring Linolenelaidic acid in our tool, here's a concise list of foods rich in Linolenelaidic acid.
Delve into this intriguing fatty acid and its presence in select food items.
Applications in Food Industry
Beyond its role in nutrition, linolenelaidic acid is utilized in the food industry as a flavor enhancer.
This versatile compound intensifies the flavors of various foods by interacting with their chemical components. The result is the creation of distinctive and appealing flavors, reminiscent of onion, garlic, horseradish, and wasabi.
It's not just limited to savory dishes; you'll find it enhancing the taste of condiments, seasonings, and sauces, adding a delightful touch to a wide range of culinary delights.
Linolenelaidic acid's multifaceted nature spans from its potential role in nutrition and health to its intriguing applications in the world of flavors, making it a noteworthy subject of exploration in both the scientific and culinary realms.
