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.