Used as a chiral building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. Its enantiomerically pure structure makes it valuable in asymmetric synthesis, where it helps introduce stereochemical control in drug development. Commonly employed in the preparation of biologically active molecules, including antibiotics and anti-inflammatory agents. Also serves as a protected form of lactic acid in multi-step organic syntheses, allowing selective reactions at other functional sites. Useful in the flavor and fragrance industry due to its ester characteristics and chirality, contributing to sensory properties in certain aroma compounds.