Conjugated Linoleic Acid Oils

Abstract

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is a name given to a mixture of geometric and positional isomers of linoleic acid having conjugated double bonds. Depending on the position and cis-trans-configuration of conjugated double bonds, 54 isomers are possible, of which 14 isomers have been identified in commercial products. CLA was first produced in 1935 via alkali treatment of polyunsaturated fatty acid rich oils. The early research used CLA mainly as a marker for the study of fat metabolism because of its high UV absorbency compared with nonconjugated fat. From the 1980’s, the research interest has increased in its biological properties, particularly its role in cancer, diabetes, and fat metabolism regulation. The present chapter discusses the metabolism, uses, method of production, and analysis of CLA. Keywords: conjugated linoleic acid; CLA; production; analysis; cancer; fat; body composition; diabetes; isomers