Widely used in the food and beverage industry as a sweetener and energy source, especially in soft drinks, baked goods, and processed foods. Serves as a key ingredient in oral rehydration solutions and intravenous fluids in medical settings to provide energy and maintain blood glucose levels. Utilized in fermentation processes for the production of ethanol, beer, wine, and other alcoholic beverages. Acts as a substrate in biotechnological applications, including the cultivation of microorganisms for antibiotic and enzyme production. Employed in the manufacturing of confectionery to control texture and prevent crystallization. Also used in the chemical industry as a starting material for the synthesis of sorbitol, gluconic acid, and other derivatives.