Butanoic acid, also known as butyric acid, is a carboxylic acid with the chemical formula C4H8O2. It is a colorless liquid with a strong and unpleasant odor. Butanoic acid is found naturally in dairy products and has a sour taste. It is widely used in the food industry as a flavoring agent and in the production of various chemicals. Some common synonyms for butanoic acid include n-butanoic acid, 1-butanoic acid, propylformic acid, and butyric acid. These synonyms are used interchangeably in scientific literature, chemical databases, and academic research. Interestingly, butanoic acid is also produced by human skin bacteria and can contribute to body odor.