Isovaleric acidIsovaleric acid, an organic compound, is a colourless liquid that is sparingly soluble in water, but highly soluble in most common organic solvents. The compound occurs naturally, including in essential oils. Isovaleric acid has a strong pungent cheesy or sweaty smell, but its volatile esters have pleasing scents and are used widely in perfumery. It is a major component of the cause of unpleasant foot odor, as it is produced by skin bacteria metabolizing leucine.
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