Rhamnolipids, a class of microbial glycolipids, have garnered attention as sustainable and environmentally friendly surfactants. This article examines their applications, advantages, and limitations, as well as their historical research dating back over seven decades. Rhamnolipids have demonstrated promise in bioremediation, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, agriculture, and the food industry, owing to their biodegradability, low toxicity, and versatility. However, cost, scale-up challenges, and regulatory obstacles remain as barriers to their full realization. The question of whether the promise of rhamnolipids has come true is a subject of ongoing research and development efforts, which aim to address these challenges and further expand their sustainable applications.

Highlights

• A greener future symbolized by rhamnolipids’ sustainable progress.
• Consumer appeal as a natural, sustainable choice.