One aspect of the present invention relates to a method of inhibiting growth of Listeria monocytogenes on or in a product by applying an inhibitor compound of the formula: where the dashed lines are optional and represent a double bond or triple bond, and at least one of the dashed lines is present. Also disclosed is a method of inhibiting growth of Listeria monocytogenes on or in a subject by treating the subject with that compound. Further aspects of the present invention relate to pharmaceutical compositions, food product compositions, personal care product compositions, and cleaning product compositions comprising the subject inhibitor compounds.