Abstract The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of crude essential oil of cilantro (Coriandrum sativum L.) and four fractions recovered by fractional distillation of the crude oil were determined against strains of Listeria monocytogenes, Listeria grayi, Listeria innocua and Listeria seeligeri. Crude oil inhibited all the test strains at concentrations â¤ 0.01% (v/v) and the remaining fractions were effective at concentrations < 0.07% (v/v). One fraction comprising a complex mixture of alcohols, aldehydes, alkanes and terpenes, including high concentrations of (E)-2-decenal, exhibited slightly greater potency than the other fractions. Listericidal activity was demonstrated by a rapid loss in cell viability upon exposure to crude oil dissolved in Tryptic Soy Broth. Cilantro oil is a potent antilisterial plant extract with potential applications as a food preservative or in the formulation of disinfectants for the control of Listeria monocytogenes in the food processing environment.