# Methyl 2-oxo-3-methylpentanoate

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**Safety rating:** UNKNOWN
**CAS number:** 3682-42-6
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Methyl 2-oxo-3-methylpentanoate is a synthetic flavoring compound used to impart fruity and buttery notes in food products. It belongs to the class of alpha-keto esters and is utilized in small quantities as a flavoring agent in various processed foods and beverages.

## Regulatory status

| Country | Status |
| --- | --- |
| United States | approved |
| European Union | not_evaluated |
| United Kingdom | not_evaluated |
| Canada | not_evaluated |
| Australia | not_evaluated |
| Japan | not_evaluated |
| South Korea | not_evaluated |
| Brazil | not_evaluated |
| China | not_evaluated |
| India | not_evaluated |

## Detailed analysis

## What is Methyl 2-oxo-3-methylpentanoate?

Methyl 2-oxo-3-methylpentanoate (CAS Number: 3682-42-6) is a synthetic organic compound belonging to the alpha-keto ester family of flavor compounds. It is characterized by the presence of a ketone functional group and an ester linkage in its molecular structure. This compound is manufactured through chemical synthesis and is not naturally derived, though similar flavor compounds exist in nature. The substance appears as a clear liquid with distinct fruity and buttery aromatic properties.

## Common Uses

This flavoring agent is primarily used in the food industry to enhance or create specific flavor profiles in processed foods and beverages. Its fruity and buttery sensory characteristics make it particularly useful in dairy products, baked goods, confectionery items, and flavored beverages. The compound is typically used at very low concentrations, in the parts-per-million range, as is standard practice with synthetic flavoring agents. Food manufacturers select this compound for its ability to contribute complex flavor notes that would be difficult or economically impractical to achieve through natural ingredients alone.

## Safety Assessment

The safety profile of methyl 2-oxo-3-methylpentanoate is not extensively documented in peer-reviewed scientific literature available to the general public. According to FDA records, there have been zero reported adverse events and zero recalls associated with this additive, which suggests a favorable safety history in commercial use. However, it is important to note that the absence of reported adverse events does not necessarily indicate comprehensive safety testing has been completed. The compound's safety depends on its intended use levels in food, which are typically very low due to its potent flavoring properties. As with all food additives, safety evaluations typically consider acute toxicity, chronic exposure effects, and potential metabolic impacts. The alpha-keto ester class of compounds has not been identified as presenting widespread safety concerns, though individual compounds within the class should be assessed on their own merits.

## Sources

- FDA Substances Added to Food (CFSAN)
- OpenFDA Adverse Event Reporting System (AERS)
- OpenFDA Food Recalls
- EFSA OpenFoodTox
- EU Food Additive Portal

## Citation

Additive Facts. "Methyl 2-oxo-3-methylpentanoate — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/methyl-2-oxo-3-methylpentanoate. Accessed 2026-05-19.