Used primarily as a flavoring agent in the food industry due to its sulfur-containing structure and ketone functionality, this compound contributes roasted, savory, or meat-like notes to processed foods. It is often found in flavor formulations for soups, sauces, snacks, and seasonings where a cooked or toasted character is desired. Its furan ring and thioether linkage enhance thermal stability, making it suitable for high-temperature food processing. Additionally, it serves as an intermediate in the synthesis of more complex flavor molecules and fragrance components in specialty chemicals.