Is Caprylic Acid (Octanoic Acid) Safe? What You Need to Know
Safety Score
Concern Level: low
Caprylic Acid (Octanoic Acid) is generally considered safe for use in household and personal care products.
What Is Caprylic Acid (Octanoic Acid)?
A medium-chain fatty acid found in coconut oil and palm kernel oil. Has antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
Commonly found in: preservatives, skin care, supplements, cleaning
Safety Research & Evidence
A medium-chain fatty acid found in coconut oil and palm kernel oil. Has antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
Regulatory status: GRAS by FDA; CIR safe; food and cosmetic ingredient
Health Concerns
No significant health concerns have been identified.
Safer Alternatives
| Alternative | Safety Score |
|---|---|
| Lauric Acid | 8/10 |
How to Avoid Caprylic Acid (Octanoic Acid)
- Read ingredient labels carefully for "Caprylic Acid (Octanoic Acid)" or its chemical synonyms
- Choose products with third-party certifications (EWG Verified, Made Safe)
- Consider alternatives like Lauric Acid
- Check the EWG Skin Deep database for product ratings
- Look for "Caprylic Acid (Octanoic Acid)-free" labels on product packaging
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Caprylic Acid (Octanoic Acid) safe for babies?
Caprylic Acid (Octanoic Acid) is generally considered acceptable for use around babies at typical concentrations in consumer products.
What are the safest alternatives to Caprylic Acid (Octanoic Acid)?
Safer alternatives include Lauric Acid (safety score: 8/10).
Is Caprylic Acid (Octanoic Acid) banned in other countries?
Regulatory status: GRAS by FDA; CIR safe; food and cosmetic ingredient
How do I know if my product contains Caprylic Acid (Octanoic Acid)?
Check the full ingredient list on the product label. Caprylic Acid (Octanoic Acid) may also appear under different chemical names. Using apps like EWG Healthy Living or Think Dirty can help identify it.
Related Safety Guides
References
- Huang CB et al. (2011). Antimicrobial properties of medium-chain fatty acids PMID: 22594709