Ethyl 3-oxovalerate, also known as ethyl acetoacetate, is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C6H10O3. It is an ester derived from acetoacetic acid. This compound is a colorless liquid with a fruity odor and is commonly used as a flavoring agent in the food industry. Additionally, it serves as a precursor in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals and organic compounds due to its reactivity and versatility in organic chemistry reactions, such as Claisen condensation and Michael addition reactions.