Palmitic acid

Other names: Palmitic acid

Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)

Palmitic acid, also known as palmitic acid, is a saturated fatty acid that occurs naturally in various vegetable fats and oils, but also in animal fats. Its name is derived from the Latin word for palm, "palma", as it is the main component of palm oil. It is a white, solid substance that is insoluble in water at normal temperatures. It is widely distributed and can be found, for example, in the milk of mammals, including humans.

Palmitic acid is used in various industrial fields. These include the food industry, where it is used as a stabiliser and emulsifier in baked goods, margarine, instant soups and chocolate substitutes. It is also used in the cosmetics industry, especially in soaps, creams and lotions. Due to its properties, it often serves as a thickening agent, but it also has the ability to soften the skin. In addition, it is also used in the pharmaceutical industry, for example in the manufacture of tablets. It is an important component of various types of biofuels and is also used in some types of plastics. However, although palmitic acid has a variety of uses, it should be stressed that, when consumed in excess, it is associated with some negative health effects, such as an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.