Cold adapted enzymes are often characterised by increased catalytic efficiency and decreased temperature stability compared to their mesophilic and thermophilic counterparts. The reduced stability is probably caused by a more flexible structure, and is explained by the need for rapid conformational changes during catalysis at low temperatures.

During the last decade there has been a growing interest in cold adapted enzymes due to their potential in industrial applications. Their high catalytic efficiency makes it possible to reduce the amount of enzyme needed in catalytic processes. The low temperature optimum and temperature stability makes them preferable for use in reactions performed at low temperatures that needs an easy inactivation. The cold enzymes along with the microorganisms cover a broad spectrum of biotechnological application.