Arachidonic Acid CAS:506-32-1
Product Introduction
Arachidonic Acid (ARA, CAS 506-32-1) is an essential omega-6 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LC-PUFA, 20:4 n-6) that plays a critical role in human health and development. It is a key structural component of cell membranes, especially in the brain, retina, and immune cells, and serves as the primary precursor for eicosanoids — a class of signaling molecules that regulate inflammation, immune response, blood clotting, and muscle growth.
Our Arachidonic Acid is produced through a high-purity fermentation process using the non-GMO filamentous fungus Mortierella alpina, yielding a vegetarian and sustainable source of this essential nutrient. The oil is carefully refined, deodorized, and stabilized with natural tocopherols (Vitamin E) to ensure optimal shelf life and potency. It is widely used in infant formula (in combination with DHA), sports nutrition, cognitive health supplements, and functional foods worldwide.
Product Identification
| Parameter | Value |
| Common Name | Arachidonic Acid (ARA) |
| IUPAC Name | (5Z,8Z,11Z,14Z)-Icosa-5,8,11,14-tetraenoic acid |
| CAS Number | 506-32-1 |
| Molecular Formula | C₂₀H₃₂O₂ |
| Molecular Weight | 304.47 g/mol |
| Lipid Class | Omega-6 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LC-PUFA) |
| Lipid Number | 20:4 (Δ5,8,11,14) / 20:4 n-6 |
| EC Number | 208-033-4 |
| MDL Number | MFCD00004418 |
| Beilstein Reference | 1713889 |
| Source | Mortierella alpina (fungal fermentation) |
| Appearance | Clear, pale yellow to golden yellow oil |
| Odor | Characteristic, mild fatty acid odor |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water; soluble in ethanol, chloroform, hexane, and oils |
| Shelf Life | 24 months under recommended storage conditions |
Applications
Infant Formula & Baby Food
- Infant formula (Stage 1, 2, 3) — brain and visual development
- Follow-on formula — cognitive and immune support
- Preterm infant formula — accelerated neurodevelopment
- Baby cereals and purees — ARA-fortified complementary foods
- Toddler growing-up milks — continuing brain support
- Organic infant formula — vegetarian Mortierella-derived ARA source
- Special medical purpose infant foods (FSMP)
Sports Nutrition
- Muscle-building supplements — ARA stimulates prostaglandin-mediated muscle protein synthesis
- Pre-workout formulations — supports exercise-induced anabolic response
- Post-workout recovery oils — eicosanoid-mediated tissue repair
- Bodybuilding softgel capsules — muscle hypertrophy support
- Endurance athlete lipid blends — membrane fluidity maintenance
- Testosterone support complexes — ARA as a second-messenger modulator
FAQ
Q1: What is the source of your Arachidonic Acid? Is it vegetarian?
Our Arachidonic Acid is produced exclusively through submerged fermentation of the non-GMO filamentous fungus Mortierella alpina. It is 100% vegetarian and does not involve any animal-derived raw materials, animal testing, or animal by-products. This is the same source used by all major infant formula manufacturers worldwide.
Q2: What is the typical ARA concentration in your oil?
Our standard product is Arachidonic Acid Oil with a minimum ARA content of 40% (w/w) in triglyceride form, verified by GC-FID analysis. Custom concentrations (35%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%) are available upon request for larger orders. We also offer ARA in ethyl ester form for specific applications.
Q3: Why is ARA important in infant formula alongside DHA?
Human breast milk naturally contains both ARA and DHA, typically in a ratio of approximately 2:1. ARA is the most abundant PUFA in the infant brain and is critical for neuronal development, while DHA is concentrated in synapses and retinal tissue. Global regulatory bodies (Codex, EU, FDA) now require both ARA and DHA in infant formulas to support optimal cognitive, visual, and immune development.
Q4: Can ARA be used in sports nutrition products?
Yes. Arachidonic Acid is a popular ingredient in sports nutrition, particularly for bodybuilding and strength athletes. Clinical research shows that ARA supplementation (1.0–1.5 g/day for 8 weeks) can enhance muscle hypertrophy, lean body mass, and anaerobic power output through prostaglandin-mediated satellite cell activation. It is typically formulated into softgels or lipid blends for pre-workout and muscle-building products.
Q5: How do you ensure oxidative stability of ARA oil?
ARA contains four double bonds, making it susceptible to lipid peroxidation. We use a multi-layered oxidative protection strategy: (1) natural mixed tocopherols (Vitamin E) and ascorbyl palmitate as antioxidants added during refining, (2) nitrogen blanketing throughout processing, packaging, and headspace, (3) opaque aluminum or nitrogen-flushed containers that block UV light, (4) refrigerated (0–10°C) storage conditions, and (5) strict peroxide value and anisidine value monitoring.
Q6: What is the recommended ARA:DHA ratio for infant formula?
The Codex Alimentarius standard requires a minimum ARA content equal to DHA content (ARA:DHA ≥ 1:1). However, human breast milk typically contains approximately 2:1 ARA:DHA, which is considered the gold standard. The European Union mandates a minimum ARA content equal to DHA in infant formula. We recommend working with your regulatory and nutrition teams to determine the optimal ratio for your target market.
