Dodecanoic acid

Dodecanoic acid, better known as lauric acid, is a twelve-carbon saturated fatty acid occurring naturally as glycerides in coconut and palm kernel oils and as a flavour compound in honeys, guavas and krill. It exists as a colourless, combustible solid, insoluble in water but soluble in ether and benzene. Applications span food additives, detergents and wetting agents, while nutritionally it is noted for raising both LDL and HDL cholesterol and for its antimicrobial properties. Soap makers prize it for lather, while food technologists value its flavour and preservative effects.