3-Hydroxytetradecanoic acid is a type of saturated fatty acid. It is naturally found in a variety of animal and plant sources, such as butter and milk fat. This compound has multiple industrial applications, particularly in the production of soaps, detergents, and other surfactants. Additionally, 3-Hydroxytetradecanoic acid serves as a precursor for synthesizing other bioactive compounds, including antibiotics and anticancer drugs.