Recent advances and potentiality of phenyllactic acid: Source, antimicrobial mechanism, and applications

Phenyllactic acid (PLA) is a biosafe antimicrobial substance primarily produced by lactic acid bacteria with a broad antimicrobial spectrum. This naturally-derived compound is of interest for its applications in food safety, medical treatments, agricultural processes, and other areas of daily life. This review synthesizes current research on PLA, examining its biological sources, antimicrobial mechanisms, applications, and strengths and limitations. It further explores the comparative safety of microbially-derived PLA versus synthetic alternatives and its mechanisms for inhibiting bacteria, fungi, and biofilm formation. Additionally, the SWOT analysis is provided to evaluate the opportunities and obstacles related to PLA production and application. PLA demonstrates various inhibitory mechanisms that effectively target a broad spectrum of microbial agents, including bacteria, fungi, and biofilms, highlighting its potential as a multifunctional biopreservative in food systems. Research indicates that PLA, especially in its microbially-derived form, offers advantages over chemically synthesized counterparts by reducing risks associated with chemical additives and aligning with consumer demand for natural products. Beyond food preservation, PLA shows considerable promise in agriculture and healthcare. Nevertheless, the SWOT analyses revealed that the production and application of PLA present opportunities and challenges, particularly concerning production scalability and regulatory consistency. Current methods of PLA production face limitations in yield and cost-effectiveness, while global regulatory standards for its use are still under development. Standardizing safety evaluations and regulatory frameworks will be essential to ensuring the acceptance of PLA as a safe and effective biopreservative. • The source, synthesis, and applications of Phenyllactic acid (PLA) were reviewed. • Comparative safety of microbially-derived vs. synthetic PLA was assessed. • Antimicrobial efficacy of PLA against fungi, bacteria, and biofilms was examined. • SWTO and future development for PLA production were proposed.