Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved process for purifying &agr;-keto acids. In particular, the present invention pertains to the isolation of pivalic acid and other organic impurities from &agr;-keto acids. The process of the invention generally includes (i) the partial acidification of an aqueous solution of a sodium salt of the &agr;-keto acid (a“keto salt”), (ii) a first solvent extraction of the keto salt solution to remove organic impurities, (iii) further acidification of the keto salt solution, (iv) a second solvent extraction to remove the &agr;-keto acid, and (v) isolation of the &agr;-keto acid from the solvent. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention relates to the preparation of trimethylpyruvic acid (TMPA) of enhanced purity.