5-Keto-D-gluconic acid potassium salt is primarily utilized in the food industry as a food additive, where it serves as a stabilizer and acidity regulator. It helps maintain the desired pH levels in various food products, enhancing their shelf life and stability. In the pharmaceutical sector, it is used as an intermediate in the synthesis of certain drugs, particularly those requiring precise pH control during formulation. Additionally, it finds application in biochemical research as a substrate or reagent in enzymatic studies, aiding in the understanding of metabolic pathways and enzyme kinetics. Its role in these fields underscores its importance in both industrial and scientific contexts.