Work

Microbiome responsive antimicrobial strategies for food preservation mechanisms applications and challenges

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Current approaches to food preservation have relied on static antimicrobials that do not change with microbe activity, resulting in continuous, non-specific treatment, loss of effectiveness, and destruction of beneficial microbiota. Microbiome-responsive antimicrobials, which are dependent upon the microbiome, have proven promising for targeted and condition-dependent antimicrobial action in food. In particular, this review has been focusing on microbiome sensing, quorum sensing, and metabolite sensing to trigger activation, and environment-sensitive responses such as pH and enzymatic changes. The translation of these microbial signals into active antimicrobial activities via smart packaging, responsive coatings, or delivery systems, with specific focus on dairy, meat, and fresh produce. The most difficult issues for implementation are also discussed with respect to regulatory issues, system stability, scalability, and risks of antimicrobial resistance. This review brings together a structured and application-centric perspective to bridge the gap between microbial sensing and effective food preservation, which can provide a new generation of adaptive systems for improved food safety and quality.

Source: Discover Food

DOI: 10.1007/s44187-026-01228-w