Abstract: Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) is a spectroscopic technique for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of elements where the surface of samples is burned by laser to obtain the plasma spectra of the target elements in them. As an efficient reagent-free online testing technology, LIBS has the advantages of environmental friendliness, minimal invasion, low cost and ease of operation. With the gradual maturity of this technology and the development of relevant scientific theories, it has become an emerging analytical tool in the area of food research. The basic principle of LIBS is briefly described in this article, and the latest progress in its application in food research is reviewed. Finally, the potential of LIBS in food analysis is also evaluated. Despite its many advantages, the application of LIBS in food analysis is still in its infancy, and there are still challenges in detection sensitivity, matrix effect elimination and portability.

Key words: laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy, principle, food analysis, application