Used as a dough conditioner in the baking industry to improve elasticity and reduce mixing time by breaking disulfide bonds in gluten. Serves as a precursor for glutathione, supporting antioxidant defenses in dietary supplements and pharmaceuticals. Added to culture media in biotechnology for cell growth and protein production. Functions as a mucolytic agent in respiratory medications to break down mucus by cleaving disulfide bonds in mucoproteins. Employed in the food industry as a flavor enhancer and to prevent browning in processed products. Utilized in cosmetics for its role in hair waving and skin conditioning due to its sulfur content and redox properties.