Can an alchemist create extracts with metamagic feats?

Question

Potions can be created with metamagic feats, so long as they don't exceed the potion spell level limit (3).

Magic Items and Metamagic Spells: With the right item creation feat, you can store a metamagic version of a spell in a scroll, potion, or wand. Level limits for potions and wands apply to the spell's higher spell level (after the application of the metamagic feat). A character doesn't need the metamagic feat to activate an item storing a metamagic version of a spell.

Can an alchemist apply metamagic feats that he knows to an extract as he creates it?

Answer 1

RAW: No

In short - extracts are not spells. An alchemist does not have "spells", despite the many similarities extracts have to spells. The RAW answer is a no.

Note that the alchemist's extracts are also not potions. So although metamagic could be applied to potions, that isn't meaningful here.

From the Creative Team: No

If that answer doesn't satisfy you, consider that James Jacobs (Creative Director) answered this question in a "ask me anything" on the Paizo forums:

Danny Kesler: Can [an alchemist] select and benefit from metamagic feats? What about metamagic rods?

James Jacobs: No.

Source.