Acetanisole is an aromatic chemical compound with an aroma described as sweet, fruity, nutty, and similar to vanilla. In addition acetanisole can sometimes smell like butter or caramel. Its chemical names are based on considering the structure as either an acetyl (methyl-ketone) analog of anisole. Other names It can also be seen as a methyl ether analog of acetophenone.
Acetanisole is found naturally in castoreum, the glandular secretion of the beaver.
Acetanisole can be prepared synthetically by Friedel-Crafts acylation of anisole with acetyl chloride:
It is used as a cigarette additive,[1] a fragrance, and a flavoring in food.