Anti-Listeria monocytogenes activity of essential oils components of conifers

The bacteriostatic and bactericidal activities of six components of conifer essential oils (α and β pinene, R- and S-limonene, 1,8 cineole, borneol) were tested on Listeria monocytogenes serovars 4b and 1/2c. α Pinene was the most active component with an average minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.019% against L. monocytogenes 4b. Conversely, the concentration of 1,8 cineole required to achieve the same effect on this serovar was 0.375%, although this concentration was directly bactericidal. The bacteriostatic and bactericidal activities differed more between different components than between different serovars. Given that these products are highly active against L. monocytogenes, they might be used to kill this species or to prevent its growth.