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Phytase is an enzyme that frees the inorganic phosphorous from the phytate complex. It addresses both
the antinutritional and eutropication problem and hence finds an important role in the feed industry.
Phytases had been classified into subgroups based on their catalytic mechanisms, pH optima (alkaline or
acid phytases), or the order in which phosphates groups are liberated. The phytase can be supplemented
or genetically transformed into plants or animals to improve the phosphorous utilisation in monogastric
animals. Several phytases has been isolated from organisms like bacteria, fungi, yeast, plants. Among
them, Aspergillus niger phytase has been commercialised first (Natuphos) and widely used since its active
at pH 2.5 and 5. The quest for the search of new phytase with wider pH and thermostabilty still goes on.
Keywords: phytase, classification, phytic acid, producing organisms, commercialisation.