Sodium alginate is widely used in the food industry as a thickening, gelling, and stabilizing agent. It is commonly found in products like ice cream, yogurt, and salad dressings to improve texture and prevent ingredient separation. In the pharmaceutical industry, it serves as an excipient in tablet formulation and coating. In the medical field, it is utilized in wound dressings, dental impressions, and controlled drug delivery systems due to its biocompatibility and ability to form gels, aiding in slow medication release and wound healing. Additionally, it is used in cosmetics as an ingredient in creams and lotions to enhance moisturization. In the textile and paper industries, it acts as a sizing agent to improve the strength and quality of fabrics and papers. Sodium alginate also plays a role in water treatment processes, where it aids in the removal of heavy metals and other contaminants.