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

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.