Application of the Reuterin System as Food Preservative or Health-Promoting Agent: A Critical Review

The reuterin system is a complex multi-component antimicrobial system produced by Limosilactobacillus reuteri by metabolizing glycerol. The system mainly includes 3-hydroxypropionaldehyde (3-HPA, reuterin), 3-HPA dimer, 3-HPA hydrate, acrolein and 3-hydroxypropionic acid, and has great potential to be applied in the food and medical industries due to its functional versatility. It has been reported that the reuterin system possesses regulation of intestinal flora and anti-infection, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activities. Typically, the reuterin system exerts strong broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties. However, the antimicrobial mechanism of the reuterin system remains unclear, and its toxicity is still controversial. This paper presents an updated review on the biosynthesis, composition, biological production, antimicrobial mechanisms, stability, toxicity and potential applications of the reuterin system. Challenges and opportunities of the use of the reuterin system as a food preservative or health-promoting agent are also discussed. The present work will allow researchers to accelerate their studies toward solving critical challenges obstructing industrial applications of the reuterin system.

Automated summary

The reuterin system produced by Limosilactobacillus reuteri is a complex multi-component antimicrobial system with potential applications in the food and medical industries. It possesses various activities such as regulation of intestinal flora, anti-infection, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer effects. Although the antimicrobial mechanism and toxicity of the reuterin system are still unclear, this updated review provides valuable information on its biosynthesis, composition, production, mechanisms, stability, toxicity, and potential applications. Challenges and opportunities for using the reuterin system as a food preservative or health-promoting agent are also discussed.