In recent years, the application of metal-organic frameworks in the field of food has attracted increasing interests, such as using metal-organic frameworks in pretreatment procedure of harmful substances detection. This paper summarized recent research progress in understanding metal-organic frameworks′ synthesis, classification and adsorption characteristics (porosity, density, specific surface area, pore size). Also, the application of metal-organic frameworks in pretreatment procedure of harmful substances in foods was summarized, including the detection of heavy metals (Hg2+, Cu2+, Ni2+, Cr2+, Pb2+, Cd2+), pesticides (nicotine, triazine, phenylurea, organic phosphorus), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (naphthalene, acenaphthylene, acenaphthene, etc.) and other substances (endocrine, disruptors, antibiotics, toxins, etc.). Future research in this area was also suggested.