Last reviewed May 2026 · 1 min read

Is Caprylic Acid vegan?

Also known as: Octanoic acid

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In short

It depends — It is most abundantly found in coconut oil and palm oil (vegan), but it also occurs naturally in the milk of mammals, including cows and goats (non-vegan).

01 · The basics

What is Caprylic Acid?

A medium-chain fatty acid known for its antibacterial properties, used in supplements and cosmetics.

02 · The source

Where it comes from

It is most abundantly found in coconut oil and palm oil (vegan), but it also occurs naturally in the milk of mammals, including cows and goats (non-vegan).

03 · Alternatives

Best vegan alternatives

Coconut-derived caprylic acid

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Frequently asked

FAQ

Is the caprylic acid in MCT oil vegan?

Yes, almost all commercially available MCT (Medium-Chain Triglyceride) oil is derived from coconut or palm oil, making it vegan.

Why is it sometimes called octanoic acid?

Octanoic acid is simply its systematic chemical name, referring to its eight-carbon chain structure.

Commonly found in

MCT oilsDietary supplementsSkincare creamsPerfumes
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