Gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS) is a sensitive analytical technology for the detection, identification and monitoring of trace substances in different matrices, which enables secondary rapid separation and high-precision qualitative analysis of analytical substances through GC and IMS. With the advantages of environmental friendliness, ease of use, simple operation, and suitability for continuous large-scale industrial detection, GC-IMS has gradually become a popular analytical technology in the field of food authentication in recent years. In an effort to provide a theoretical reference for food authentication, this review introduces the types, structures, working principles, and analytical methods of GC-IMS, and focuses on its application in food authentication.