# Lauric Acid

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**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 143-07-7
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Lauric acid is a saturated fatty acid naturally found in coconut oil, palm oil, and dairy products. In food manufacturing, it functions as a flavoring agent, flavor enhancer, and lubricant or release agent in various processed foods.

## Regulatory status

| Country | Status |
| --- | --- |
| United States | approved |
| European Union | not_evaluated |
| United Kingdom | approved |
| Canada | approved |
| Australia | approved |
| Japan | not_evaluated |
| South Korea | not_evaluated |
| Brazil | approved |
| China | not_evaluated |
| India | not_evaluated |

## Detailed analysis

## What is Lauric Acid?

Lauric acid (dodecanoic acid, CAS Number 143-07-7) is a saturated medium-chain fatty acid containing 12 carbon atoms. It occurs naturally in significant concentrations in coconut oil (approximately 50%), palm kernel oil, and dairy fats. The compound is odorless to slightly odorous and exists as a white or off-white crystalline solid at room temperature. Lauric acid is readily soluble in organic solvents and lipid-based food systems.

## Common Uses

In food manufacturing, lauric acid serves multiple functional roles. As a flavoring agent and flavor enhancer, it contributes to the taste profile and mouthfeel of processed foods. The compound also functions as a lubricant and release agent in food production equipment, facilitating processing efficiency. Additionally, lauric acid acts as a surface-active agent, helping to stabilize emulsions and improve product consistency in baked goods, confectionery, and dairy products.

Lauric acid appears in processed foods including margarines, shortenings, chocolate coatings, ice cream, and various baked goods. It is also used in non-food applications including cosmetics and personal care products.

## Safety Assessment

Lauric acid has an established history of safe consumption as a naturally occurring component of common dietary fats. The FDA has recorded zero adverse events associated with lauric acid and zero product recalls linked to this additive. The absence of reported safety incidents reflects its long history of use and integration into the food supply.

As a saturated fatty acid, lauric acid's safety profile is similar to other saturated fats found in traditional food sources. Nutritionally, lauric acid is metabolized like other dietary fats and provides approximately 9 calories per gram. Some research suggests that lauric acid may have different metabolic effects compared to other saturated fatty acids, though this remains an area of ongoing scientific investigation.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has not classified lauric acid as a substance of concern when used in food applications. Its presence in natural food sources like coconut oil demonstrates long-term dietary safety in human populations.

## Regulatory Status

Lauric acid does not currently hold GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status with the FDA. However, this classification status does not indicate a safety concern. GRAS designation is a specific regulatory pathway available for substances with demonstrated safe use history, but absence of GRAS status does not mean the substance is unsafe or prohibited. Many food ingredients function legally without formal GRAS determination.

Lauric acid is permitted in food applications across multiple regulatory jurisdictions. The FDA recognizes it as an acceptable food additive under appropriate conditions of use. Its regulatory position reflects its long history of safe consumption and its natural presence in foods consumed worldwide.

## Key Studies

Scientific literature demonstrates that lauric acid, while a saturated fatty acid, exhibits distinct metabolic properties. Research has examined lauric acid's effects on cholesterol profiles and lipid metabolism compared to other saturated fats. Studies indicate that the metabolic fate of lauric acid differs from palmitic or stearic acids, though comprehensive health impact assessment requires consideration of overall dietary patterns.

Toxicological studies have not identified safety concerns at levels consistent with food use. The compound's safety in cosmetic and personal care applications, where it is widely used, further supports its benign safety profile. Ongoing research continues to characterize the detailed nutritional and metabolic aspects of individual fatty acids, including lauric acid.

## Brands using Lauric Acid

- Dove (1 product)

## Sources

- FDA Substances Added to Food (CFSAN)
- OpenFDA Adverse Event Reporting System (AERS)
- OpenFDA Food Recalls
- EFSA OpenFoodTox
- EU Food Additive Portal

## Citation

Additive Facts. "Lauric Acid — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/lauric-acid. Accessed 2026-05-19.