Ethyl methylphenylglycidate

Ethyl methylphenylglycidate, commonly known as "strawberry aldehyde", is an organic compound used in the flavor industry in artificial fruit flavors, particularly strawberry.

It is classified as an ester and an epoxide; but despite its common name, it is not an aldehyde. Ethyl methylphenylglycidate is a colorless to pale yellow liquid that is insoluble in water. It has a taste and odor that is fruity and reminiscent of strawberries.

Ethyl methylphenylglycidate is usually prepared by the condensation of acetophenone and the ethyl ester of monochloroacetic acid in the presence of a base, in a reaction known as the Darzens condensation.

Because of its pleasant taste and aroma, it finds use in the fragrance industry, in artificial flavors, and in cosmetics. Its end applications include perfumes, soaps, beauty care products, detergents, pharmaceuticals, baked goods, candies, ice cream and others.