Annona muricata Leaf Extract as a Plant-Based Bio-Preservative: Mechanisms, Synergy, and Translational Applications in Food Systems

Modern food systems face increasing pressure to ensure microbiological safety while reducing reliance on synthetic preservatives. Rising foodborne disease incidence, spoilage-related losses, and regulatory and consumer demand for clean-label products have exposed the limitations of conventional preservation strategies. In this context, Annona muricata leaf extract emerges as a promising yet underutilized plant-based bio-preservative. Rich in acetogenins, flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenolic acids, the extract exhibits a coordinated multi-target antibacterial profile, disrupting membrane integrity, bioenergetics, nucleic acid synthesis, quorum sensing, and biofilm formation in key foodborne pathogens. Notably, acetogenin-mediated inhibition of NADH dehydrogenase provides a distinct mechanism rarely observed in other botanical preservatives. Beyond direct antibacterial activity, the extract functions as a synergy-enhancing agent, improving the efficacy of bacteriocins, organic acids, and essential oils at reduced dosages. This review integrates mechanistic insights, formulation strategies, food-matrix interactions, and safety and regulatory considerations, while outlining a translational framework encompassing extract standardization, synergy design, and delivery optimization. Together, these findings position A. muricata leaf extract as a multi-target, formulation-compatible, and translationally viable solution for next-generation clean-label food preservation systems.