palmitinsav

Palmitinsav, known in chemistry as hexadecanoic acid, is a saturated long-chain fatty acid with 16 carbon atoms. Its chemical formula is C16H32O2, and in shorthand it is often written as C16:0. It is one of the most common saturated fatty acids found in both animals and plants. Its melting point is about 63 °C.

Natural occurrence and dietary sources: Palmitic acid occurs widely in fats and oils. It is particularly abundant in palm oil, bovine milk fat, butter, pork fat, and many vegetable fats. In fats, palmitic acid is typically present as part of triglycerides or other lipid esters.

Biosynthesis and metabolism: In animals, palmitic acid is produced by de novo fatty acid synthesis in the cytosol from acetyl-CoA and malonyl-CoA, via the enzyme complex fatty acid synthase. It is activated to palmitoyl-CoA and used for the synthesis of longer-chain fatty acids or incorporated into triglycerides, phospholipids, and other lipids. Palmitic acid can be oxidized in mitochondria through beta-oxidation to generate acetyl-CoA and energy.

Uses and occurrence in industry: Palmitic acid serves as a building block for soaps, detergents, lubricants, and cosmetics. In the food industry, it is a common component of fats and oils and occurs in many dietary fats as triglycerides. Palmitate is also used as a standard in analytical chemistry.

Health considerations and safety: Dietary palmitic acid contributes to total saturated fat intake. High intake of saturated fats has been associated with changes in LDL cholesterol levels in some studies, depending on overall dietary patterns. In foods, palmitic acid is generally regarded as safe; concentrated preparations can be irritants.