Essential oils for antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and food preservation applications
Research-driven expertise in evaluating essential oils from medicinal and aromatic plants for antimicrobial, antibiofilm, antifungal, and anti-insect activity. The team investigates optimal EO concentrations and combinations to combat bacterial and fungal pathogens, degrade biofilms, and extend the shelf life of fruits, vegetables, bread, and animal-origin foods.
Overview
This offering centers on applied research into the biological activity of essential oils (EOs) derived from medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs). EOs are complex volatile chemical mixtures produced through plant secondary metabolism, and they have demonstrated significant potential to inhibit or eliminate bacteria, yeasts, fungi, and insect pests. The research team investigates how EO chemical composition influences antimicrobial potency, identifies which microorganisms are most sensitive or resistant, and evaluates practical applications including biofilm degradation and food shelf-life extension. The work addresses the growing demand for natural, plant-based alternatives to synthetic microbicides in food preservation, biomedicine, and crop protection.
Technical specifications
Research capabilities and findings:
- In vitro and in situ antimicrobial testing of essential oils against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, yeasts, and microscopic fungi
- Biofilm degradation studies evaluating EO effectiveness on bacterial biofilms across different surfaces
- Determination of ideal EO concentrations and synergistic ratios for maximum biological effect
- Anti-insect activity testing, including repellent applications using optimal EO blends
- Shelf-life extension studies on fruits, vegetables, bread, and animal-origin food products under in situ conditions
- Chemical composition analysis of essential oils linked to their bioactive properties
Key applications:
- Natural food preservatives to replace synthetic additives
- Antimicrobial agents for biomedical and veterinary use
- Biofilm control on food-contact and industrial surfaces
- Plant-based insect repellents for agricultural or domestic use
Technology readiness level
The research group has several years of accumulated laboratory experience evaluating antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity of essential oils, with documented positive results against a range of microorganisms. Validations have been completed through both in vitro assays and in situ food system tests. Ongoing and future work aims to refine optimal EO concentrations, expand testing to additional food matrices and insect species, and deepen understanding of biofilm development and degradation mechanisms. The technology is at an applied research stage, ready for collaborative pilot trials and further co-development with industry partners.
About Slovak University of Agriculture
The Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra is a public agricultural research university with about 4,500 students, 935 employees, and six faculties, combining a practice-oriented mission with national and international reach. Industry engagement is anchored by the open AgroBioTech Research Centre, where university and external research organizations can access specialized infrastructure for applied research and transfer into practice. A 2,270-hectare university farm, 25-hectare botanical garden, and expert institute extend this model into field-based testing, demonstration, consulting, and regional collaboration. Research is supported through Slovak schemes including APVV and VEGA, EU framework and structural-fund programmes, and an Office of Project and Transfer Activities that assists with funding development, technology transfer, and national and international partnerships.
Inquire about this partnering listing
Looking for
delivered to your inbox.