Alkanoates are naturally found in

Alkanoates, also known as fatty acid esters, are primarily found in lipids. Lipids are a broad group of naturally occurring molecules that include fats, waxes, sterols, fat-soluble vitamins (such as vitamins A, D, E, and K), and others. One of the main components of lipids is fatty acids and their derivatives, such as alkanoates.

To be more specific, alkanoates can be found in the form of triglycerides, which are the main constituents of body fat in humans and animals, as well as vegetable fat. Triglycerides are composed of glycerol bound to three fatty acids, and these fatty acids are usually present in the form of alkanoates.

Unlike proteins and rubber, which are made up of amino acids and polymers of isoprene respectively, lipids are the primary class of biomolecules where these alkanoate compounds can be found in significant amounts.