Used primarily as a food additive, it acts as an emulsifier, stabilizer, and buffering agent in processed foods like cheeses, meats, and canned products. In industrial applications, it serves as a cleaning agent in detergents and metal surface treatments due to its ability to soften water and remove grease. Additionally, it is employed in water treatment processes to control pH levels and prevent corrosion in pipelines. In agriculture, it functions as a fertilizer to provide essential potassium and phosphorus nutrients to plants.