Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of herbicides, particularly in the production of selective chloroacetamide and sulfonylurea-type herbicides. It plays a key role in agricultural chemistry for controlling broadleaf weeds and grasses in crops such as corn and soybeans. Its structure allows for further chemical modifications, making it valuable in developing active ingredients that inhibit plant growth by targeting specific enzyme pathways. Also utilized in research for developing new pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals due to its reactive amino and carboxylic functional groups.