Catalytic deoxygenation of SA under He occurs primarily via decarboxylation yielding n-heptadecane and heptadecenes. Online QMS revealed that H2 is evolved concomitant with CO2 (and CO) during SA decarboxylation under He. This reaction pathway may explain the higher than expected CO2 selectivity prior to complete SA conversion. As SA conversion approaches 100%, hydrogenation of heptadecenes via hydrogen transfer from the dodecane solvent results in 98% n-heptadecane yield. Although the initial rate of SA decarboxylation is lower, catalyst stability is enhanced under 10% H2 by avoiding the formation of unsaturated hydrocarbon products.