For the first time the synthesis of zinc containing linseed oil based polyesteramide resins (Zn-LPEA-1 to Zn-LPERA-5) with different loadings of zinc acetate were carried out by in situ condensation polymerization reaction between linseed oil derived linseed fattyamide diol (HELA), phthalic anhydride and zinc acetate (divalent metal salt, different mole ratios) in the absence of any solvent. By-products such as water and acetic acid were removed by the application of vacuum technique. This approach was employed to overcome the use of volatile organic solvents [VOCs] during processing and application of the resin, that are ecologically harmful. The structure of the resin was confirmed by FT IR, H-1 NMR and 13 C NMR spectral studies. Physico-chemical properties were studied by standard methods. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was used to measure the thermal behaviour of the resin. The antibacterial studies of Zn-LPEA resins were carried out by agar diffusion method. Antibacterial activities of Zn-LPEA were compared with reported virgin linseed polyesteramide (LPEA) and zinc incorporated petroleum based polymers. (c) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.