A product corresponding to formula (I) or its ketonic tautomer form (II) ##STR00001## which is 3-(1-hydroxy-pentylidene)-5-nitro-3H-benzofuran-2-one, a process for the preparation and use of the product corresponding to formula (I) or its tautomeric form (II), a process for the preparation and use, particularly for the production of synthesis intermediates.