Used primarily as a platform chemical in the production of biofuels and biobased polymers. It serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of renewable plastics, such as polyethylene furan-2,5-dicarboxylate (PEF), which is a sustainable alternative to PET. Also employed in the development of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals due to its reactive aldehyde and hydroxyl functional groups. Investigated for use in organic batteries and as a precursor in the manufacture of fuels like 2,5-dimethylfuran. Additionally, it finds application in food chemistry as a marker for heat treatment and sugar degradation in processed foods.