Identifying Linolenic Acid Type (ALA vs. GLA) in Sacha Inchi Oil COA
Asked by: him_jam
On: October 05, 2019
Product Type:
Food
Question
I am conducting research on Sacha Inchi oil and have received a COA. I would like to know if the specification `C:18:3 Linolenic 44.7% Min` refers to Alpha or Gamma Linolenic acid.
Answer
Sacha Inchi Oil: Alpha vs. Gamma Linolenic Acid
Based on the typical fatty acid profile of Sacha Inchi oil, the C18:3 Linolenic acid listed in your COA at 44.7% minimum is almost certainly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).
Here's why:
- Sacha Inchi oil is renowned for being an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, with ALA being the primary omega-3 present in significant amounts.
- Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), while also a C18:3 fatty acid, is an omega-6 fatty acid and is typically found in oils like Evening Primrose Oil or Borage Oil, not Sacha Inchi oil.
Therefore, the high percentage of C18:3 Linolenic acid in your Sacha Inchi oil COA corresponds to the alpha form (ALA).
