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Which foods contain linoleic acid?

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A composite diagram shows the structural formulas, space-filling models, and simplified depictions of lipid molecules including stearic acid and phosphatidylcholine, and how these assemble into a micelle and lipid bilayer, with labels identifying hydrophilic heads and hydrophobic tails. — Lipid Structure and properties of two representative lipids. Both stearic acid (a fatty acid) and phosphatidylcholine (a phospholipid) are composed of chemical groups that form polar “heads” and nonpolar “tails.” The polar heads are hydrophilic, or soluble in water, whereas the nonpolar tails are hydrophobic, or insoluble in water. Lipid molecules of this composition spontaneously form aggregate structures such as micelles and lipid bilayers, with their hydrophilic ends oriented toward the watery medium and their hydrophobic ends shielded from the water.

Linoleic acid is an essential polyunsaturated fatty acid (specifically an omega-6 fatty acid) that the human body cannot synthesize and must therefore obtain through dietary sources.123

It is found in moderate to high proportions in many plant-based seed oils. Primary dietary sources include:2

Vegetable oils: Safflower, corn, soybean, sunflower, and cottonseed oils are particularly notable sources.23
Whole foods: A varied diet that includes grains, nuts, seeds, and vegetables can help fulfill the body's requirement for this essential fatty acid.3
Margarines: Some polyunsaturated margarines are formulated using a blend of oils specifically selected to provide a high linoleic acid content.2

Because linoleic acid is a key component of cell membranes and a precursor to important regulatory compounds, its inclusion in the diet is vital for maintaining health.123