Palmitoleic Acid
An omega-7 monounsaturated fat studied for metabolism.
What is Palmitoleic Acid?
Palmitoleic acid is a monounsaturated omega-7 fatty acid. The body can make it, and it is concentrated in macadamia nuts and sea-buckthorn oil. It acts partly as a signaling molecule, and researchers are studying its effects on metabolism and inflammation.
Health benefits of Palmitoleic Acid
- A monounsaturated fat the body can also make itself
- Acts as a signaling molecule between tissues
- Studied for possible roles in metabolic health
Top food sources of Palmitoleic Acid
See full rankingMacadamia nuts, sea-buckthorn oil, and small amounts in animal fats. Values shown per 100 g.
Oil, beluga, whale (Alaska Native)
20,330 mg
Oil, bearded seal (Oogruk) (Alaska Native)
18,883 mg
Nuts, macadamia nuts, raw
12,981 mg
Nuts, macadamia nuts, dry roasted, without salt added
12,725 mg
Nuts, macadamia nuts, dry roasted, with salt added
12,725 mg
Oil, spotted seal (Alaska Native)
10,960 mg
Fish oil, menhaden
10,482 mg
Fish oil, herring
9,642 mg
Fish oil, cod liver
8,309 mg
Fish oil, sardine
7,514 mg
Fat, turkey
6,000 mg
Fat, chicken
5,700 mg
How much Palmitoleic Acid do you need?
There is no Daily Value. Macadamia nuts and sea-buckthorn oil are the richest dietary sources.
Palmitoleic Acid deficiency
There is no dietary requirement because the body produces palmitoleic acid.
Nutrition data per 100 g from the USDA & FooDB databases. Daily Values follow the FDA 2016+ labeling standard for a 2,000-calorie diet. This guide is for general information and is not medical advice.
Related nutrients
Frequently asked questions
What does Palmitoleic Acid do?
Palmitoleic acid is a monounsaturated omega-7 fatty acid. The body can make it, and it is concentrated in macadamia nuts and sea-buckthorn oil. It acts partly as a signaling molecule, and researchers are studying its effects on metabolism and inflammation.
How much Palmitoleic Acid do I need per day?
There is no Daily Value. Macadamia nuts and sea-buckthorn oil are the richest dietary sources.
Which foods are highest in Palmitoleic Acid?
Per 100 g, some of the richest sources are Oil, beluga, whale (Alaska Native), Oil, bearded seal (Oogruk) (Alaska Native), Nuts, macadamia nuts, raw, Nuts, macadamia nuts, dry roasted, without salt added, Nuts, macadamia nuts, dry roasted, with salt added.
What happens if I don't get enough Palmitoleic Acid?
There is no dietary requirement because the body produces palmitoleic acid.