In soybean oil-based IVFE, alpha-linolenic acid accounts for approximately what percentage?

• A. 7-9%
• B. 0%
• C. 3-4%
• D. 12-15%

Answer: (C)

Alpha-linolenic acid is a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid present in soybean oil, but it makes up only a small portion of the fat in the emulsion. In a soybean oil–based intravenous fat emulsion, the profile is dominated by linoleic acid (an omega-6) with only a modest amount of alpha-linolenic acid—roughly 3-4% of the total fatty acids. This means the omega-3 supply from this emulsion is modest, which is why clinicians may look to mixed or fish-oil–containing emulsions when higher omega-3 delivery is desired. The other percentages would overstate or understate the actual content for this type of IVFE, so 3-4% is the best fit.