Processes for preparing linoleic acid raw materials are described wherein the processes comprise: (a) transesterifying a triglyceride component with an alcohol having from 1 to 4 carbon atoms, at a temperature of from 80 to 120° C., to form a transesterification mixture comprising linoleic acid esters and one or more by-products selected from the group consisting of glycerides, free glycerol, and soaps, wherein the triglyceride component is comprised of at least 60% by weight linoleic acid; and (b) removing the one or more by-products from the transesterification mixture.