Ethyl Acetoacetate is produced industrially by the reaction of diketene with ethanol or by the Claisen condensation of ethyl acetate. It is a versatile β-ketoester widely used both as a flavor compound and as a chemical synthesis intermediate. In flavors it contributes fruity, apple/peach character at typical use levels of 1–50 ppm, finding application in berry, apple, grape, and tropical flavor compositions.
Beyond flavors it is used in pharmaceutical synthesis (sulfadiazine, antibiotics), pigment manufacture, cosmetics as a solvent, and nail polish formulations. FEMA GRAS 2415, listed under FDA 21 CFR 172.515 as a synthetic flavoring substance, and approved in the EU Flavoring Regulation. Typical purity ≥ 99%. Stable under ambient conditions, miscible with most organic solvents, slightly soluble in water.