D-(-)-Melibiose is primarily used in research and industrial applications due to its unique properties. In the food industry, it serves as a low-calorie sweetener and a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. It is also utilized in the production of functional foods and dietary supplements aimed at improving digestive health. In microbiology, D-(-)-Melibiose is employed as a selective agent in culture media to differentiate and identify specific bacterial strains, particularly those capable of metabolizing melibiose. Additionally, it finds application in biochemistry for studying enzyme mechanisms and carbohydrate metabolism. Its role in glycobiology research is significant, as it helps in understanding the structure and function of complex carbohydrates in biological systems.