A nucleotide sequence encoding phytase has been isolated and cloned. The
coding sequence has been inserted into an expression construct which in
turn has been inserted into a vector capable of transforming a microbial
expression host. The transformed microbial hosts may be used to
economically produce phytase on an industrial scale. The phytase produced
via the present invention may be used in a variety of processes requiring
the conversion of phytate to inositol and inorganic phosphate.