Disclosed are compounds of the general formula I and II (as further defined herein) are useful in the production of inhibitors of sphingolipid synthesis the production of sphingolipids. Suitable sphingolipids, include, but not limited to, sphingosine and compounds incorporating sphingosine or that may use sphingosine as an intermediate or a starting material in their synthesis (including, but not limited to, sphingosine-1-P, ceramide, gangliosides and sphingomyelin). In one contemplated use, compounds of the general formula I and II are useful in the production of sphingosine. In another contemplated use, compounds of the general formula I and II are useful in the production of a sphingofugin. Methods of manufacturing each of the above compounds are also provided.