Evaluation of antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of natural phenolic compounds against foodborne pathogens and spoilage bacteria

► Gallic acid was effective in the control of S. aureus at lower concentrations. ► Thymol and carvacrol were the most effective against the four genera/species studied. ► Hydroquinone was the least effective against the four genera/species studied. ► Gallic acid and hydroquinone exhibited the highest antioxidant capacity.