Used in the food industry as an acidulant and preservative, enhancing flavor and extending shelf life of products such as baked goods, beverages, and dairy items. Commonly employed in the pharmaceutical sector for its role in drug delivery systems and as a chiral building block in synthesizing active pharmaceutical ingredients. Serves as a key monomer in the production of polylactic acid (PLA), a biodegradable polymer used in eco-friendly packaging, disposable plastics, and biomedical materials like sutures and implants. Applied in cosmetics for pH adjustment and as a moisturizing agent due to its humectant properties. Also utilized in leather tanning and textile processing to control acidity and improve product quality.