Abstract: Amid escalating global environmental changes, food security has become a growing concern for humanity. Forest foods, being a vital resource for food security and high-quality diets, have recently drawn increasing attention in fields like nutrition, economics, and ecology. This study systematically combs and analyzes the theoretical research and practical achievements of forest food from three dimensions involving the concept and classification of forest food, the value identification, and the development and management. This study clarifies the concept and value connotation of forest food, deeply analyzes the limitations of the current classification standards, and proposes the construction of a more scientific composite classification system to meet its development needs. Furthermore, by analyzing the models and strategies for forest food development and management, we identifies key existing problems and suggests sustainable solutions, aiming to offer useful insights for future research and development.