ABSTRACT.The improvement of sample preparation and extraction techniques for natural bioactive compounds determinations is of great importance nowadays. New concepts are being introduced in this field, not only related to enhancement of extraction efficiencies but also related to environmental impact. This evolution towards Green Chemistry is pushing to new extraction and sample preparation processes that should be faster, more reproducible and more environmentally friendly. In this context, compressed fluidsbased sample preparation techniques (such as supercritical fluid extraction and pressurized liquid extraction) are demonstrating good capabilities. In this review, an updated knowledge on the techniques will be presented together with the main technical developments and the most notable recent applications for the extraction of bioactive compounds.Keywords: bioactive compounds, natural samples, plants, agricultural by-products, pressurized liquid extraction, supercritical fluid extraction, subcritical water extraction Abbreviations: ASE, accelerated solvent extraction; DHA, docosahexaenoic acid; EAE, enzyme-assisted extraction; EPA, eicosapentaenoic acid; IL, ionic liquids; MIP, molecular imprinted polymers; PFE, pressurized fluid extraction; PHSE, pressurized hot solvent extraction; PHWE, pressurized hot water extraction; PLE, pressurized liquid extraction; PLPW, pressurized low polarity water extraction; n-3 PUFA, n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid; RAM, restricted access media; scCO2, supercritical CO2; SFE, supercritical fluid extraction; SHWE, superheated water extraction; SPE, solid Published in TrAC. Trends in analytical chemistry [0165-99362012 vol:43 pg:67 -83 http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.trac.2012.12.008 3 phase extraction; SWE, subcritical water extraction; TG, triglycerides; UAE, ultrasound assisted extraction; WEPO, water extraction and particle formation on-line.