Phenyl β-D-glucopyranoside is widely used in biochemical research as a substrate for studying enzyme activity, particularly glycosidases. It helps in understanding the mechanisms of glycosidic bond cleavage and the specificity of enzymes. This compound is also employed in the synthesis of complex carbohydrates and glycoconjugates, which are essential in drug development and glycobiology studies. Additionally, it serves as a model compound in metabolic pathway analysis, aiding in the exploration of carbohydrate metabolism in various organisms. Its applications extend to the food industry, where it is used to enhance flavor and sweetness in certain products.