Used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, especially in the pharmaceutical and fragrance industries. It serves as a building block for the preparation of active pharmaceutical ingredients due to its reactive ester and ketone functional groups, which allow further chemical modifications. Its structure supports the synthesis of chiral molecules, making it valuable in the development of enantiomerically pure drugs. Additionally, it may be employed in the creation of flavor and fragrance compounds, where its ester moiety contributes to fruity or floral olfactory notes. The compound's versatility stems from its ability to undergo reduction, alkylation, and condensation reactions under controlled conditions.