How are triglycerides formed from glycerol and fatty acids?

Triglycerides are formed through a chemical process in which three molecules of fatty acids combine with one molecule of glycerol.12

Structurally, these compounds are esters, created when the fatty acid radicals link to the glycerol backbone. The resulting triglyceride is classified based on the specific fatty acids attached:12

• Simple triglycerides: Each of the three fatty acid molecules attached to the glycerol is identical (e.g., tripalmitin).1
• Mixed triglycerides: The glycerol molecule is combined with two or three different types of fatty acids (e.g., oleopalmitostearin).1

Because any of the three fatty acid radicals can be linked to the center carbon of the glycerol molecule, mixed triglycerides can exist in different isomeric forms. While these molecules are naturally synthesized in living organisms, they can also be broken down into their constituent glycerol and fatty acids through processes such as hydrolysis or saponification.12