Abstract: Reverse flotation process is widely used in iron ore flotation process for its high flotation efficiency and good product quality. In the reverse flotation process, the selection of efficient, economic and environmental protection inhibitors plays a decisive role for the reverse flotation results. In this paper, the research progress of organic inhibitors in iron ore flotation process is reviewed, with emphasis on the research status of starch, cellulose and other inhibitors. The influence of the composition of organic inhibitors and other factors on the inhibition difference is described. Although organic inhibitors have good selectivity, high separation efficiency, low price and environmental protection. There are still some shortcomings in iron ore flotation. Therefore it is pointed out that the research focus of organic inhibitors in the future will be to find efficient substitute for organic inhibitors and modify organic inhibitors.