Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy is an effectual and noncritical approach for quantitative study of different types analytes present in pharmaceutical and foodstuffs. The present review describes the basic principles and the instrumentation of FTIR spectroscopy along with its sample preparation techniques, sample handling techniques and advancements. FTIR spectroscopy in combination with chemometrics techniques has been followed over long times. The main objective of this review is to assemble the data linked to application of FTIR spectroscopic and chemometrics techniques for the quantitative study of varieties of analytes like API, adulterants, caffeine, cocaine, lipids, fats & oils, sugar and others. The FTIR spectroscopy with chemometrics techniques proved to be a beneficial methodology for quantitative study to routine analysis of these analytes.