Behenic Acid
Behenic acid is a long-chain saturated fatty acid present naturally in some plant oils. As a saturated fat, high intake may raise LDL cholesterol, but typical dietary exposure is very low.
What it is
Behenic acid (docosanoic acid) is a 22-carbon saturated fatty acid found naturally in seeds (notably ben oil) and used as a cosmetic emollient.
Component of natural fats; minor dietary saturated fatty acid; cosmetic emollient and structuring agent.
Why it's flagged
- saturated fatty acid (raises LDL at high intakes)
What regulators actually say
"Docosanoic acid (behenic acid) is a long-chain saturated fatty acid (C22:0) found in seeds and oils."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Not a designated food additive; constituent of natural fats. Cosmetic ingredient.
European Union — EFSA
Not authorized as a food additive; cosmetic regulation.
Scan it before you buy it
Get Ube on iOS or Android — point at any barcode, see what's actually in there.
Get the app