<p xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML">The results demonstrate the effectiveness of thyme EO against the food-related bacteria and fungus tested. The synergism, antagonism and additive effects, respectively, of the EOs components require further research to elucidate the mechanisms underlying their biological activity, for the purpose of accessing new natural antiseptics applicable in the pharmaceutical and food industry.</p>