Used in the food industry as an acidulant to enhance flavor and act as a preservative in dairy products, beverages, and baked goods. Helps control pH and inhibits microbial growth, extending shelf life. In cosmetics, functions as a moisturizer and exfoliant in skincare products due to its ability to promote skin renewal. Commonly used in pharmaceuticals for pH adjustment and as an excipient in drug formulations. Employed in the textile industry for dyeing and printing processes, and in leather tanning to remove hair and soften hides. Also utilized in cleaning products for descaling and removing mineral deposits. Increasingly used in biodegradable polymer production, especially polylactic acid (PLA), which serves as a renewable alternative to plastic in packaging and disposable items.