Food-grade preservative 

Levulinic acid as a food-grade preservative finds usage in slowing down microbial growth, regulating the pH levels of food products, and disinfecting the surface of fruits. Besides, levulinic acid is generally deployed to make maple, caramel, and several other syrupy flavors such as a flavor in berry-type compositions.

FOOD ADDITIVES PERMITTED FOR DIRECT ADDITION TO FOOD FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION: From 21CFR172.515: Levulinic acid could be used as Flavoring Agents and Related Substances.