D-(-)-Sorbose is primarily used in the production of vitamin C (ascorbic acid). It serves as a key intermediate in the Reichstein process, a method for synthesizing vitamin C on an industrial scale. In this process, D-(-)-Sorbose is converted to 2-keto-L-gulonic acid, which is then transformed into ascorbic acid. Additionally, it is utilized in microbiological research and fermentation studies due to its role as a substrate for certain microorganisms. Its applications also extend to the food industry, where it is sometimes used as a low-calorie sweetener or a bulking agent in dietary products.