Used primarily as a biological stain to identify lipids and fats in various laboratory settings. It is commonly applied in histology to stain tissues, allowing for the visualization of fat deposits under a microscope. In the food industry, it serves as a colorant for oils, waxes, and other non-polar substances, though its use is restricted in many regions due to health concerns. Additionally, it is employed in educational laboratories to demonstrate staining techniques and lipid detection in biological samples. Its vibrant red color makes it effective for highlighting specific structures or components in research and analysis.