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Active Antimicrobial Packaging Systems: Mechanisms of Microbial Control and Applications in Food Preservation
Esteban Pérez1, Esther Sanjuán1, Miroslav Jůzl2
1Department of Animal Pathology and Production, Bromatology and Food Technology, Faculty of Veterinary, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Trasmontaña s/n, 35413 Arucas, Spain.
Biology
|February 26, 2026
Summary
Active antimicrobial packaging uses natural compounds to inhibit foodborne pathogens and spoilage microbes. This biologically informed strategy enhances food safety by targeting microbial physiology, reducing contamination risks.
Area of Science:
- Food Science
- Microbiology
- Materials Science
Background:
- Microbial spoilage and foodborne pathogens pose significant food safety risks due to microbial adaptability.
- Active antimicrobial packaging offers a biologically informed approach to control microbial growth in food.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanisms and efficacy of active antimicrobial packaging in mitigating microbial contamination.
- To assess the impact of active antimicrobial packaging on microbial physiology and food safety.
Main Methods:
- Review of studies employing natural antimicrobials, bacteriocins, essential oils, and metal nanoparticles in packaging.
- Analysis of microbial reductions against key pathogens (e.g., Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., E. coli O157:H7) and spoilage organisms.
- Evaluation of factors influencing efficacy, including food matrix properties and storage conditions.
Main Results:
- Active antimicrobial packaging achieves significant multi-log reductions in target microorganisms.
- Mechanisms include cell membrane disruption, enzyme inhibition, reactive oxygen species generation, and quorum sensing interference.
- Efficacy is influenced by food pH, water activity, fat content, and storage temperature; oxygen scavengers can alter microbial ecology.
Conclusions:
- Active antimicrobial packaging is a promising strategy for enhancing food safety by targeting microbial behavior.
- Further research is needed to address nanoparticle migration, microbial resistance, and matrix-dependent performance.
- Integrative approaches combining microbial ecology, packaging science, and toxicology are crucial for future advancements.
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