Ethyl acetate

Ethyl acetate is an organic compound with the chemical formula CH3COOCH2CH3. It is a colourless liquid with a characteristic sweet, fruity odour. It can be produced industrially by the esterification of ethanol with acetic acid, or it can occur naturally in small amounts in fruits and other foods.

Ethyl acetate is widely used as a flavouring agent in the food industry, particularly in confectionery, baked goods, and beverages, to impart fruity notes. It is also used as a solvent for various food-grade applications. Its presence in foods like salt and vinegar crisps contributes to their characteristic flavour profile.

Ethyl acetate is authorised as a flavouring substance in the UK and the EU. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated flavouring substances, including ethyl acetate, as part of its safety assessments. At the levels typically found in food, ethyl acetate is not considered to pose a health risk. JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives) has also evaluated ethyl acetate and established it as safe for consumption when used as a flavouring agent.