Zinc formate dihydrate is used as a catalyst for production of methanol. It is also used as a waterproofing agent for textiles, as an antiseptic, and as a pharmaceutical intermediate. It plays an important role in the production of blowing agents and stabilizing agents as well.  As an analytical reagent, it is used to determine water content in wastewater.  This organic salt also has uses in agrochemical manufacturing, insulin manufacturing, metal oxide manufacturing, and methanol production.