Abstract: Cyclodextrin based metal-organic frameworks (CD-MOFs) include prominent tunable porosity and high surface area, which integrate the unique properties of cyclodextrins (CDs) and the structural advantages of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). These hybrid materials exhibit remarkable capacity for encapsulating bioactive compounds, demonstrating significant potential for food-related applications. This review systematically examines the synthesis methods of CD-MOFs, and highlights the auxiliary roles of ultrasound- and microwave-assisted techniques in conventional preparation processes. Additionally, a novel seed-mediated synthesis approach is introduced, followed by a comparative analysis of the advantages and limitations of existing methods. Furthermore, the applications of CD-MOFs in the food sector are critically evaluated, which are focus on three key areas: encapsulation and controlled release of bioactive food ingredients, the detection, adsorption and removal of contaminants, and emulsion stabilization. Finally, the development prospects of CD-MOFs in food field are prospected.