Ethyl heptadecanoate is primarily used in the flavor and fragrance industry due to its ability to impart a pleasant, fruity aroma. It is often incorporated into perfumes, cosmetics, and personal care products to enhance their scent profiles. Additionally, it serves as a flavoring agent in food products, contributing to the taste of various edible items. In research, it is utilized as a standard or reference compound in analytical chemistry, particularly in gas chromatography, to help identify and quantify similar esters. Its role in organic synthesis also makes it valuable for creating more complex chemical compounds.