1. A yellow liquid organic compound (C₄H₆O₂) with a butter-like flavor, used as a food additive and in industrial applications.
Usage: chemistry; food industry; Also called 2,3-butanedione

Examples

• Diacetyl is commonly used to give popcorn its buttery flavor.
• The chemical diacetyl has been linked to respiratory health concerns in factory workers.
• Many manufacturers have removed diacetyl from their products due to safety regulations.
• Diacetyl occurs naturally in some fermented foods like beer and wine.
• The food industry has sought safer alternatives to diacetyl for flavoring applications.