Natural phenolics as multitarget antimicrobials for food preservation: mechanisms of action

Le résumé fourni par la source

Natural phenolics are emerging as promising clean-label antimicrobials, yet evidence for their multitarget mechanisms remains scattered. This review synthesizes 158 studies (2013–2025) on Escherichia coli , Staphylococcus aureus , and related pathogens. Three converging antibacterial targets are identified: ROS generation (72 % of phenolics), membrane disruption (58 %), and DNA interaction (41 %). Compounds such as bisdemethoxycurcumin, gallic acid, thymol, and Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) act across all targets, reducing bacterial counts by up to 4 log CFU/mL at ≤2 × MIC. A cascade mechanism is proposed: ROS triggers lipid peroxidation, weakening membranes, enhancing phenolic uptake, and accelerating DNA damage. Food matrix factors (pH, fat, water activity, microbiota) can suppress efficacy by up to 90 %. Emerging delivery strategies—nanoemulsions, biopolymer capsules, and active films—partially restore function. This review integrates molecular insights with food system data, offering a practical framework for designing robust phenolic-based antimicrobials. • Natural phenolics disrupt bacteria via ROS, membrane damage, and DNA binding. • A cascade model explains how multitarget synergy enhances antimicrobial efficacy. • Experimental data verify BDMC's DNA interaction and oxidative membrane stress. • Food matrix interference and delivery strategies are critically reviewed. • Insights guide the clean-label design of phenolic-based food preservatives.

Ce résumé expose les affirmations des auteurs. BNTIC ne l’interprète pas comme une validation indépendante des résultats.