Last verified: 17 days ago
Phytase
Also known as: phytase enzyme, myo-inositol hexakisphosphate phosphohydrolase, exogenous phytase, microbial phytase
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Digestive enzyme that breaks down phytic acid in plant foods, helping release trapped minerals like zinc and iron.
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What it does
Phytase is a digestive enzyme that breaks down phytic acid (phytate), an antinutrient found in grains, legumes, and seeds that binds to minerals and blocks their absorption. In a randomized...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
No established dose for human supplements
What the Science Says
Phytase is a digestive enzyme that breaks down phytic acid (phytate), an antinutrient found in grains, legumes, and seeds that binds to minerals and blocks their absorption. In a randomized controlled trial in young Gambian children, adding phytase to a nutrient supplement more than doubled the amount of zinc absorbed from a millet-based meal. It is most studied in the context of infant and child nutrition, where phytate-rich complementary foods can limit mineral uptake.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to boost athletic performance. No evidence it directly treats mineral deficiency on its own. Most human research is in infants and young children — adult benefits are not well established from the provided studies. Not a substitute for a balanced diet. Animal feed research does not translate directly to human supplement use.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Doubles zinc absorption from phytate-rich meals in young children when added to nutrient supplements.
Moderate EvidenceEffective at: No established human dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Reduces phytic acid content in wheat bran by over 65% when used in food processing.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established human dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
May support improved iron status in infants when included in fortified nutrient supplements.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established human dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown for oral human supplements — phytase acts in the gut to improve absorption of other nutrients (zinc, iron, phosphorus) rather than being absorbed itself. Efficacy depends on food matrix, pH, and dosing context.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Most research in the provided studies is from animal (poultry) feeding trials, which do not directly apply to human supplementation.
- Only one human RCT in the provided data, conducted in young Gambian children — adult dosing and efficacy are not established.
- Products marketed for adults often lack clinical evidence for the specific doses and formulations used.
- Phytase activity can be destroyed by heat during food processing, so enzyme viability in finished supplement products is not guaranteed.
Products Containing Phytase
See how Phytase is used in these analyzed products:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Phytase do?
Digestive enzyme that breaks down phytic acid in plant foods, helping release trapped minerals like zinc and iron.
What is the effective dose of Phytase?
No established dose for human supplements
Is Phytase safe?
Most research in the provided studies is from animal (poultry) feeding trials, which do not directly apply to human supplementation.
What doesn't Phytase do?
Not proven to boost athletic performance.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25