Use of <i>Mentha spicata</i> essential oil for prolonging postharvest life of fresh vegetables

Abstract Mentha spicata L. (Lamiaceae), commonly called spearmint, is cultivated worldwide for its remarkable aroma and commercial value. Antimicrobial effectiveness of essential oils against many foodborne microorganisms when applied directly has been extensively demonstrated. The antimicrobial potential oil in the vapor phase different ( Salmonella enterica subsp. CCM 3807, Yersinia enterocolitica 5671, Enterococcus faecalis 4224, Staphylococcus aureus 2461, Candida albicans 8186, C. glabrata 8270, krusei 8271, tropicalis 8223) was determined by situ method on vegetable model (carrot, radish, potatoes, kohlrabi). seven days Petri dishes with four concentrations (500, 250, 125, 62.5 μL.L −1 ) M. food models. carrot, potato, kohlrabi concentration 500 most effective. shows good as preservative shelf-life prolongation vegetables.