A reaction with chloroacetyl chloride gives an anilide which is treated with chloromethyl ethyl ether and sodium hydroxide to form the herbicide.

[3] In the United States, acetochlor was registered by the EPA as a direct substitute for many herbicides of known concern.

)[5] It is the main active ingredient in Acenit, Keystone, Guardian, Harness, Relay, Sacemid, Surpass, Top-Hand, Trophy and Winner.

[8] A case of poisoning with extremely swollen genitals as a symptom was reported after contact.

[9] In the United States, acetochlor is the third most frequently detected herbicide in natural waters.