Widely used as a natural preservative and acidulant in the food and beverage industry, enhancing flavor and extending shelf life. Commonly found in soft drinks, candies, and jams for its tangy taste. Also serves in cleaning products due to its ability to chelate metal ions, improving the effectiveness of detergents and removing hard water stains. Used in pharmaceuticals to adjust pH and stabilize formulations. Plays a role in cosmetic products for pH control and as an antioxidant. Employed in industrial applications such as water treatment and metal cleaning processes.