Caproic acid, also known as hexanoic acid, is a saturated fatty acid with a six-carbon chain. It is commonly found in animal fats and oils, as well as in some plant oils. Caproic acid has a strong, unpleasant odor, often described as rancid or goat-like, which is why it is not typically used in food products. In addition to its presence in nature, caproic acid is used in various industrial applications. It serves as a flavoring agent, a fragrance component, and is involved in the production of esters for use in perfumes and cosmetics. Its chemical formula is C6H12O2.