Microbial exopolysaccharides: Main examples of synthesis, excretion, genetics and extraction

► Polysaccharides are used as thickeners, stabilizers and gelling agents in food products. ► Some microorganisms can produce over 40 g L−1 of EPSs that represent an industrially untapped market. ► An inventory was made of the main EPSs produced by microorganisms (yeasts, bacteria, microalgae). ► Bacteria produce the greatest diversity of molecules and quantities of over 10 g L−1. ► Secretory mechanisms exist in microorganisms but extraction methods is often necessary.