Octanoic Acid is a saturated medium-chain fatty acid with an 8-carbon backbone. Octanoic acid is found naturally in the milk of various mammals and is a minor component of coconut oil and palm kernel oil. It is an oily liquid with a slightly unpleasant rancid-like smell that is minimally soluble in water. Octanoic acid is a colorless to light yellow liquid with a mild odor. Burns, but may be difficult to ignite. Corrosive to metals and tissue.