Arachidonic Acid (ARA)
Arachidonic Acid (ARA) Manufacturer | Essential Omega-6 for Infants & Sport-men Nutrition CAS: 506-32-1 | Source: Fermented Mortierella Alpina Forms: 40% Oil (TG/EE), 10% Micro-encapsulated Powder | Purity: USP/Food Grade Certifications: ISO9001, HACCP, Halal, Kosher, Non-GMO • Critical Nutrient: The primary Omega-6 fatty acid in the brain and muscles. • Fermentation Source: Clean label, consistent quality, free from marine pollutants. • Applications: Infant Formula (Brain development) & Sports Supplements (Muscle Growth). • Supply: Ready Stock in Cold Storage Facilities (Xi'an).
Introduction
Arachidonic Acid (ARA) is a long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (Omega-6, 20:4 n-6). While it is found in small amounts in animal fats (egg, meat), industrial-scale high-purity ARA is produced by the fermentation of the fungus Mortierella alpina.
It is chemically defined as 5,8,11,14-Eicosatetraenoic Acid. ARA is metabolically distinct from other Omega-6s (like Linoleic Acid) because it is a direct precursor to eicosanoids (prostaglandins, thromboxanes, leukotrienes), which function as powerful local hormones regulating inflammation, immunity, and cell signaling.
Category：
Keywords：
mortierella
fermentation
Functions
1.Infant Brain & Vision Development
• Neural Structure: ARA constitutes a significant portion of the phospholipid fatty acids in the brain cinerea and retinal membranes.
• Development: Clinical studies confirm that supplementing infant formula with ARA (alongside DHA) supports visual acuity and cognitive development (IQ) comparable to breastfed infants.
2.Sports Nutrition & Muscle Anabolism
• Inflammatory Response: ARA is essential for the initial inflammatory response triggered by resistance training. This acute inflammation is the necessary biological signal to activate muscle protein synthesis and repair.
• Prostaglandin Synthesis: Converts to PGF2α, which stimulates muscle cell growth and strength gains ("The Anabolic Trigger").
3.Bone Density & Immunity
• Bone Health: Supports the maintenance of bone mineral density.
• Immune Modulation: Vital for the proper functioning of the immune system's response to pathogens.
Applications
Infant Formula:
• Regulatory Standard: Mandatory ingredient in many countries for infant formula (typically balanced 1:1 or 2:1 with DHA).
Sports Supplements:
• Muscle Builders: "X-Factor" supplements for bodybuilders to break through training plateaus.
Functional Foods:
• Dairy Products: Fortified milk and yogurts for child development.
Clinical Nutrition:
• Elderly Care: Supports cognitive function for aging populations.
Flow Chart
1.Fermentation: Cultivation of Mortierella alpina in controlled bioreactors.
2.Harvesting: Collection of fungal biomass.
3.Extraction: Physical pressing and solvent extraction to obtain crude oil.
4.Refining: Degumming, deacidification, and bleaching.
5.Winterization (Critical): Removal of saturated fats/waxes to ensure clarity at low temperatures.
6.Deodorization: Removal of volatile compounds for a neutral taste.
7.Standardization: Adding antioxidants (Tocopherols/Ascorbyl Palmitate) to prevent and delay oxidation.
8.Packaging: Nitrogen-flushed drums (Oil) or spray-drying(powder).
Quality Standard of Lactoferrin
Product: Arachidonic Acid (ARA) 40% Oil
| Items | Specifications | Results |
| Appearance | Colorless to light yellow clear oil | Light yellow clear oil |
| Assay (C20:4 n-6) | ≥ 40.0% (as Triglycerides) | 41.5% |
| Acid Value | ≤ 1.0 mg KOH/g | 0.3 |
| Peroxide Value | ≤ 5.0 meq/kg | 2.1 |
| Moisture | ≤ 0.1% | 0.05% |
| Heavy Metals (Pb) | ≤ 1 ppm | <1ppm |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤ 0.1 ppm | <0.1ppm |
| Microbiology | Sterile / Pathogen Free | Conforms |
Note: We also supply 10% CWS Powder (Micro-encapsulated) for dry blends.
Method of Analysis of Lactoferrin
We use Gas Chromatography (GC) with Flame Ionization Detection (FID) for fatty acid detecting.
• FAME Preparation: The oil is trans-methylated to form Fatty Acid Methyl Esters.
• Identification: Retention times are compared against a C20:4 standard. This ensures the distinction between ARA and other isomers or impurities.
Reference Chromatogram of Lactoferrin Reference Substance
(Image Placeholder: GC Chromatogram of ARA Oil)
The chromatogram shows a distinct, major peak for C20:4 n-6 (Arachidonic Acid), typically accounting for >40% of the total fatty acids. Other peaks represent natural fungal fatty acids like Oleic Acid and Palmitic Acid.
Stability and Safety
Stability Studies
• Sensitivity: Highly susceptible to oxidation due to four double bonds.
• Stabilization: Stabilized with mixed Tocopherols (Vitamin E).
• Shelf Life:
○ Oil: 12-24 months at <20°C (Refrigeration preferred).
○ Powder: 24 months in sealed foil bags.
• Data: Peroxide value remained <5 meq/kg after 12 months storage at 15°C under nitrogen.
Safety & Handling (MSDS Summary)
• Classification: GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) for food use.
• Storage: Critical. Must be stored in a cool, dry place. Oil drums should be nitrogen-blanketed after every opening to prevent rancidity.
• Handling: Avoid contact with eyes/skin. Clean spills immediately (slip hazard).
Customer Comments
Procurement Manager, Dairy Co., New Zealand
2026.03.21
★★★★☆
Product Developer, Sports Nutrition Brand, USA
2026.03.21
★★★★☆
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FAQ
What is the source of your ARA?
Our ARA is 100% Fermentation-derived using the fungus Mortierella alpina. It is a vegetarian/vegan source and is free from the heavy metals often found in marine-derived oils.
Why is ARA important for bodybuilders?
While often avoided by the general public due to inflammation concerns, controlled inflammation is essential for muscle growth. ARA depletion (from training) can limit progress. Supplementing ensures the body has enough substrate to trigger the anabolic response post-workout.
What is the recommended ratio with DHA?
For infant formula, the Codex Alimentarius and most experts recommend a DHA:ARA ratio of 1:1 to 1:2. We supply both algal DHA and fungal ARA to help you create a balanced formulation.
References
1.Koletzko, B., et al. (2008). The roles of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in pregnancy, lactation and infancy: review of current knowledge and consensus recommendations. Journal of perinatal medicine.
2.Roberts, M. D., et al. (2007). Effects of arachidonic acid supplementation on training adaptations in resistance-trained males. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition.
3.Birch, E. E., et al. (2000). A randomized controlled trial of early dietary supply of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids and mental development in term infants. Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology.
4.Tallima, H., & El Ridi, R. (2018). Arachidonic acid: Physiological roles and potential health benefits - A review. Journal of Advanced Research.
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