Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) produced from a strain of Rhizobium etli demonstrated an ability to bind a variety of metals. Cells and capsular EPS rapidly bound Mn2+ ions preferentially to Pb2+ and Cu2+, but also showed an affinity for Pb2+. The binding capabilities of soluble EPS were affected by its extraction and processing. The results suggest potential applications in the field of bioremediation.