Linoleic acid assay

Linoleic acid (CAS 60-33-3) is a polyunsaturated fatty acid belonging to the omega-6 family. It plays a fundamental role in maintaining the integrity of cell membranes, regulating inflammation, and lipid metabolism. This essential fatty acid cannot be synthesized by the human or animal body, hence the importance of dietary or supplemental intake.

Naturally present in many vegetable oils (sunflower, corn, safflower or grapeseed oil), linoleic acid is also valued in nutraceutical , cosmetic and functional food for its benefits on cardiovascular health, skin or immunity.

Why measure linoleic acid?

The determination of linoleic acid is a key step in several industrial contexts:

• Nutritional evaluation of oils and food supplements
• Determination of fatty acid profiles for labeling or claims (source of omega-6)
• Optimization of cosmetic formulations for hydrating, anti-aging or soothing purposes
• Quality control of plant-based raw materials or functional ingredients
• Regulatory monitoring and verification of product compliance with applicable requirements (e.g., INCO Regulation, FEDIAF, Codex)

Analytical methods used

Linoleic acid analysis is performed by gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC-FID) , following a preliminary esterification step to fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs). This method is the most widely used for the quantification of fatty acids in complex matrices.

For more detailed analyses or in the presence of interfering compounds, gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) can be used.

Matrices analyzed

• Raw or refined vegetable oils (sunflower, rapeseed, safflower, linseed, etc.)
• Oilseed extracts
• Dietary supplements in the form of capsules, softgels, powders
• Foods enriched with fatty acids
• Cosmetic products containing lipid extracts
• Ingredients for animal nutrition

Related analyses available at YesWeLab

Linoleic acid analysis is often part of a broader lipid characterization approach. YesWeLab offers several complementary services in its catalog:

1. Complete fatty acid profile (omega-3, 6, 9)
   → For an overview of FAMEs and nutritional balance assessment.
2. Iodine value
   → Allows you to assess the degree of unsaturation of lipids, in relation to the stability of oils.
3. Vitamin E (α-tocopherol) dosage
   → Natural antioxidant often present with linoleic acid, useful for oxidative stability.
4. Peroxidation index / oxidative stability (OSI, PV)
   → Essential for monitoring the aging of oils and controlling their preservation.

These analyses can be combined in a single study plan or offered as customized analytical panels , according to your technical or regulatory needs.

Analytical expertise at the service of your industry

YesWeLab supports you in the measurement of linoleic acid and the characterization of fatty acids, thanks to a network of expert laboratories, most of which are ISO 17025 accredited and/or COFRAC certified . Our digital platform allows you to easily manage your analysis requests, track samples, and retrieve results.

Our services are intended for many industrial sectors: agri-food, cosmetics, animal nutrition, medicinal plants or functional ingredients.

Need a reliable linoleic acid analysis?
Request a quote directly online or contact our scientific team for personalized support.