Used in the production of biodegradable polymers, particularly polylactic acid (PLA), which serves as a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics in packaging, disposable tableware, and medical devices. Plays a role in food preservation as a natural acidulant and antimicrobial agent, helping extend shelf life. Employed in cosmetic formulations for pH adjustment and skin conditioning due to its mild exfoliating properties. Also utilized in pharmaceuticals as a chiral building block for synthesizing active ingredients and in fermentation processes as a metabolic byproduct for monitoring microbial activity.