Phytase is a phosphatase enzyme that catalyzes, or kickstarts, the hydrolysis of phytic acid, also known as phytate. Phytic acid is a form of indigestible phosphorus that’s present in plant-based foods such as cereal, wheat, and various grains. Roughly two-thirds of the phosphorus present in plant foods is bound in the form of phytic phosphate. Through the hydrolysis reaction, phytase liberates phosphorus so that the body can use it. (more…)