Hibiscus sabdariffa (HS) is an edible plant with parts used in various applications, including foods. HS is also known for its antiseptic, diuretic, antioxidant and antimutagenic properties. Limited information is available on the antimicrobial properties against foodborne pathogens. UA researchers investigated the in vitro bactericidal effects of aqueous pastes of calyces and leaves of HS against Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica and Listeria monocytogenes.
Observations suggest that the strong bactericidal activity exhibited by the calyces and leaves of HS against E. coli, enterica Newport and L monocytogenes may have various applications for control of foodborne pathogens at food production and processing levels.