Used as a chiral building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of beta-hydroxy esters and other optically active compounds. Its stereochemistry makes it valuable in asymmetric synthesis, where it serves as an intermediate in the development of drugs requiring high enantiomeric purity. Commonly employed in the preparation of protease inhibitors and other bioactive molecules. Also utilized in the fragrance and flavor industry due to its ester functionality and structural characteristics.