Abstract: Flavor plays a crucial role in the sensory perception of food and is a key determinant for consumer preference and choice. Therefore, flavor analysis methods are of paramount importance. Traditional methods for flavor analysis have limitations such as time-consuming and unable to handle large sample data. The emergence of machine learning is poised to address these problems. Machine learning possesses the capability to analyze and process vast amounts of data, identify complex patterns in high-dimensional variable spaces, autonomously learn useful information from known data, and automatically generate and optimize algorithms for prediction based on new data. The emergence of machine learning provides a new method for understanding the complex flavor characteristics of food. This article provides a comprehensive review of the advantages and disadvantages of traditional and novel machine learning methods as well as their various application scenarios in conjunction with analytical instruments such as electronic tongue, electronic nose, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Additionally, it reviews the application of machine learning in food flavor analysis. Through research, it has been found that different scenarios of food flavor analysis require different machine learning methods. Machine learning holds significant potential for enhancing food quality, safety and consumer satisfaction. The combination of multiple machine learning models and analytical techniques will play a crucial role in food flavor analysis.

Key words: machine learning; food flavor; flavor perception; quality control; sensory analysis; composition optimization