A New Synthetic Pathway for the Bioproduction of Glycolic Acid From Lignocellulosic Sugars Aimed at Maximal Carbon Conservation.

Glycolic acid is a two-carbon α-hydroxy acid with many applications in industrial sectors including packaging, fine chemistry, cosmetics, and pharmaceutics. Currently, glycolic acid is chemically manufactured from fossil resources. This chemical mode of production is raising some concerns regarding its use in health for personal care.