Used as a preservative in pharmaceuticals and food products to prevent oxidation and spoilage. Commonly added to injectable medications to protect oxygen-sensitive ingredients. Employed in water treatment to remove residual chlorine and dissolved oxygen, helping prevent corrosion in boiler systems. Utilized in the paper and pulp industry during sulfite pulping to break down lignin in wood. Acts as a reducing agent in chemical manufacturing and photographic processing. Also found in some cosmetic formulations to maintain product stability by scavenging oxygen.