The research and development of chitosan based ink in the food field is summarized and reviewed through investigating the relevant literature and experimental results in recent years. Because of its antibacterial, adsorption, degradability, biocompatibility, acid solubility and film-forming ability, chitosan can be used as ink binder resin to disperse organic or inorganic pigments to prepare environmentally-friendly chitosan based ink. This kind of ink possesses characteristics including multi concentration, multi viscosity, acid & alkali resistance and suitability for a variety of printing methods. The application of chitosan based ink in food, food packaging and food related smart devices is still in its infancy. However, the harmful components of traditional ink have gradually attracted people's attention, especially in the terms of food safety. Therefore, the research of safe, environmentally-friendly, and degradable ink (like chitosan based ink) will become a major trend.