Sensitivity of food pathogens to garlic (Allium sativum)

The inhibitory activity of garlic ( Allium sativum ) against Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi, Escherichia coli and Listeria monocytogenes was measured by the 'turbidity' method. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of garlic at 80% inhibition level was calculated for these bacteria. All bacterial pathogenic strains tested were inhibited by garlic; E. coli was most sensitive and Listeria monocytogenes was least sensitive. Therefore, garlic has potential for the preservation of processed foods.