A process has been developed for the utilization of fructose by PTS.sup.- microorganisms. Providing the microorganisms with increased fructokinase activity, and optionally with increased fructose transport capacity, allows the microorganisms to use fructose as a nutrient supply with sustained growth. The microbial production of substances such as cell mass, glycerol, and 1,3-propanediol may be achieved during growth in a fructose containing medium using this process.