Widely recognized as the most bitter substance known, this compound is primarily used as an aversive agent to prevent accidental ingestion of harmful substances. It is added to a variety of consumer products such as antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, solvents, and liquid soaps to discourage misuse, especially by children. Due to its extremely bitter taste even at very low concentrations, it serves as an effective denaturant for ethanol in industrial alcohol, making it unfit for consumption. It is also used in some pharmaceuticals to prevent abuse or overuse, and in household products like detergents and cleaning agents to reduce the risk of poisoning. Its high water solubility and stability make it suitable for use in both liquid and solid formulations.