Abstract: The exopolysaccharides( EPSs) of lactic acid bacteria( LAB) have unique physicochemical properties and biological activities,and it is of great significance to study the physicochemical properties and structure of the EPSs and to elucidate the relationships between structure and function.This review introduced the classification and composition of EPSs,as well as summarized the available information on procedures and methods used for research on this topic. The information provided deals with methods for isolation and purification of EPSs,the physicochemical properties and structure identification. The research contents and orientation in the future were also discussed.