2-Tetradecylcyclobutanone is a 2-alkylcyclobutanone that is commonly found in irradiated foods such as meats, nuts, cheeses and fish. Irradiation of food is a common method of food preservation, killing microorganisms that contaminate food or cause spoilage. 2-Tetradecylcyclobutanone is also a compound that may promote experimental colon carcinogenesis.