Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of carotenoid-based compounds, crocetin dialdehyde plays a role in producing natural colorants and fragrance components. It is involved in the preparation of apocarotenoids, which have applications in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries due to their coloring and potential bioactive properties. Its reactive aldehyde groups allow for chemical modifications to create derivatives with enhanced stability or specific functions. It may also serve in research settings for studying carotenoid metabolism and oxidative cleavage pathways.