Chocoshield: probiotic chocolate from local lactic acid bacteria against multidrug-resistant foodborne pathogens

This study investigated the antimicrobial potential of cell-free supernatants (CFS) from Lacticaseibacillus paracasei dan Lactobacillus plantarum K014 against key foodborne pathogens. L. paracasei was identified as the most promising strain isolated from ‘musangking’ durian, demonstrating strong bactericidal activity and targeted inhibition of selected pathogens. Synergistic testing with tetracycline revealed complex interactions, highlighting the importance of optimising combinations of natural and conventional antimicrobials. The novelty of this work lies in the strain-specific antimicrobial potential of locally isolated lactic acid bacteria, which supports their application as natural biopreservatives. The findings further provide a scientific basis for developing functional food products, such as probiotic chocolate bars, that deliver both health benefits and extended shelf life.