Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) commonly occur in the environment, and the development of civilization and technology causes the exposure of man to those contaminants to increase. PAHs are chemically stable compounds with strong lipophilic properties. The amount of benzene rings, which PAHs may contain, is between two and several tens; those benzene rings are bound to one another and this determines their differentiated physical-chemical and toxic properties. PAHs are compounds with proven mutagenic and carcinogenic effects. In the paper, the issues were discussed that related to the formation and properties of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Particular attention was paid to the results of tests for PAHs in food and to changes in the legal requirements in force. Many researchers have reported the presence of PAHs in meat and fish products subjected to heat treatment (smoking, frying, grilling), cereal products, seafood, vegetable and animal fats, vegetables, legumes as well as foods for infants and young children, diet supplements, tea and coffee. In food, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are determined using, principally, liquid or gas chromatography and applying test methods that meet the criteria set out in Commission Regulation (EU) No 836/2011. According to the assessment by the European Commission, it is indispensable to monitor PAHs in foods for the purpose of permanent risk control.