Microorganisms can synthesize a wide range of surface-active compounds with high ability to reduce surface and interfacial surface tension, generally called microbial surfactants. Major types, sources, screening of producing strain, the use of cheap substrates, optimization of fermentation process, separation and purification on microbial surfactants and its application in food additives were reviewed. Finally, present problems during the research were discussed. This study can provide theoretical basis for the industrial production and application of microbial surfactants in food industry.