Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of Maranta arundinacea extract against Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli in T84 cells

<i>Campylobacter</i>, a bacterium commonly found in the chicken gut, is the leading cause of bacterial foodborne gastroenteritis globally. Despite various interventions aimed at controlling <i>Campylobacter</i> in the food chain, such as enhanced biosecurity measures, improved hygiene practices and farm-level controls, reducing its prevalence remains a significant challenge. While the European Union's (EU) 2006 ban on antimicrobials as growth promoters was primarily intended to control antimicrobial resistance, its impact on <i>Campylobacter</i> load has been limited. The emergence of antibiotic-resistant <i>Campylobacter</i> has created a requirement to develop alternative methods to improve food safety, enhance performance and mitigate pathogenic bacteria. This study explored the potential of <i>Maranta arundinacea</i> (arrowroot) extract as a prospective dietary supplement for both humans and chickens. The investigation focused on its safety, its ability to reduce <i>Campylobacter</i> in T84 intestinal epithelial cells and its anti-inflammatory properties. Results showed that 4% and 25% concentrations of arrowroot extract were non-cytotoxic to human T84 cells and significantly reduced bacterial growth in <i>Campylobacter jejuni</i> strains. Additionally, the extract inhibited the growth of <i>Campylobacter coli</i> strains and <i>Escherichia coli</i>, with statistical significance observed against <i>E. coli</i> at the 25% concentration. These results suggest that arrowroot extract could be a promising natural alternative for addressing antibiotic resistance and enhancing food safety.