CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid)

CLA is not a single molecule but a family of positional and geometric isomers of linoleic acid (C18H32O2, MW 280.44 g/mol) in which the two double bonds sit next to one another instead of being separated by a methylene group. Commercial CLA is made by alkali isomerisation of non-GMO safflower seed oil (Carthamus tinctorius L.), which is naturally rich in linoleic acid. The reaction concentrates the two isomers of commercial interest, cis-9,trans-11 (rumenic acid, CAS 2540-56-9) and trans-10,cis-12 (CAS 2420-56-6), to a combined 78-80% of total fatty acids at an approximate 1:1 ratio; the isomer mixture as traded carries CAS 121250-47-3. Plain safflower oil is not a substitute: it carries well under 1% CLA, which is why the isomerised material is a distinct ingredient with its own specification. Thovek supplies CLA in the forms the market actually buys. The free fatty acid grade is the most concentrated and lowest-cost route to a stated CLA load. The re-esterified triglyceride grade is preferred where a neutral taste and a low acid value matter, and it is the form EFSA assessed as a novel food ingredient, Tonalin TG 80 and Clarinol each being roughly 80% CLA with the two isomers at 1:1. Ethyl ester grade suits buyers working to an ester-based analytical method. Spray-dried powders at 50-60% oil load on an acacia or maltodextrin carrier go into sachets, bars and dry blends where an oil is unworkable. Finished softgels are available at 1000, 1250 and 1500 mg fill. Two points come up on almost every enquiry. On labelling, 21 CFR 101.9 defines trans fat as unsaturated fatty acids carrying isolated, non-conjugated trans double bonds, so conjugated fatty acids are excluded by definition and CLA does not enter the trans fat declaration. On regulatory status, EFSA concluded the safety of CLA-rich oils was established for the proposed uses and daily intakes for periods up to six months, did not establish safety beyond six months or for type-2 diabetic subjects, and no EU health claim has been authorised for CLA. Thovek states composition only and makes no efficacy, therapeutic or disease claim; buyers own the claims they carry in their own market. The softgel shell is the other decision that changes a label: bovine gelatin removes any vegan claim, fish gelatin introduces a fish allergen, and only HPMC or starch shells keep a plant-only declaration intact. Material is produced under FSSAI licence with ISO 22000 and HACCP systems, with non-GMO, halal and kosher documentation issued per shipment.