Ethyl pentanoate, also commonly known as ethyl valerate, is an

organic compound Some chemical authorities define an organic compound as a chemical compound that contains a carbon–hydrogen or carbon–carbon bond; others consider an organic compound to be any chemical compound that contains carbon. For example, carbon-co ...

used in flavors. It is an

ester In chemistry, an ester is a compound derived from an acid (either organic or inorganic) in which the hydrogen atom (H) of at least one acidic hydroxyl group () of that acid is replaced by an organyl group (R). These compounds contain a distin ...

with the molecular formula C₇H₁₄O₂. This colorless liquid is poorly soluble in water but

miscible Miscibility () is the property of two substances to mix in all proportions (that is, to fully dissolve in each other at any concentration), forming a homogeneous mixture (a solution). Such substances are said to be miscible (etymologically ...

with organic solvents. As is the case with most volatile esters, it has a pleasant aroma and taste. It is used as a

food additive Food additives are substances added to food to preserve flavor or enhance taste, appearance, or other sensory qualities. Some additives, such as vinegar ( pickling), salt ( salting), smoke ( smoking) and sugar ( crystallization), have been used f ...

to impart a fruity flavor, particularly of apple.

References

{{Esters Ethyl esters Food additives Flavors Valerate esters