Used as a preservative in food and pharmaceuticals to prevent oxidation and maintain freshness. Commonly added to processed foods, beverages, and wines to extend shelf life by inhibiting microbial growth and browning reactions. Employed in water treatment to remove residual chlorine by reacting with it to form harmless byproducts, making it essential in wastewater and drinking water systems. Utilized in the textile industry during dyeing processes to control pH and prevent premature oxidation of dyes. Applied in chemical synthesis as a reducing agent, particularly in organic reactions where selective reduction of aldehydes or ketones is needed. Commonly found in cosmetic formulations to protect active ingredients from degradation due to air exposure.