Flow injection( FI) analysis combined with flame atomic absorption spectrometry( FAAS) was applied to detect trace heavy metals in foods. This method has the advantages of simple,speed and high efficient. This paper reviews the recent development of the determination of heavy metals in foods by FI coupled with FAAS. On principle,the various methods of measuring parameters and the scope of use,the comparative analysis of the pros and cons of various methods are elucidated. The prospect of the method in food analysis is also proposed.