In food safety, detecting pesticide residues from environmental exposure is garnering increasing global attention. Therefore, it is crucial to develop rapid and straightforward detection methods for pesticide residues. In comparison to the limitations of traditional detection techniques, fluorescent probes have become ideal tools for detecting pesticide residues in food due to their superior non-destructive detecting and real-time monitoring capabilities. In this work, first, the types of pesticides commonly found in food and the fundamental principles underlying fluorescent probe materials are introduced. Second, the characteristics, applications, advantages, and limitations of prevalent fluorescent probes for food pesticide residue detection are evaluated. Finally, the significance of fluorescent probe materials in the detection of pesticide residues within the context of food safety and the developmental potential of fluorescent probes in this field are summarized and discussed, aiming to provide a valuable reference for developing new probes for pesticide residue detection and future research directions.