AOAC Policy Documents

AOAC INTERNATIONAL Journal Reviewer Guidelines

The AOAC Journal publishes original research in the field of chemical and micro-biological research: unpublished original research; new methods; further studies of previously published methods; background work leading to development of methods; compilations of authentic data composition; technical communications; cautionary notes; comments on techniques, apparatus and reagents. Emphasis is on development and validation of precise, accurate and sensitive methods for the analysis of foods, supplements, cosmetics, drugs, feeds and fertilizers, and environmental samples for normal constituents, food additives, contaminants and pesticides, toxins, and other hazardous substances. Papers dealing with surveys or monitoring data will not be accepted. The research article submitted for your review should be evaluated on the basis of the quality of the scientific information and quality of presentation. When evaluating the science, it is suggested you consider the following criteria, among others you may decide to use:

1) Originality of the research 2) Technical quality 3) Clarity and logic 4) Statistical treatment of the data 5) Contribution to the field of analytical chemistry or microbiology 6) Data supports the conclusions 7) Safety considerations

When evaluating the presentation, it is suggested you consider the following factors, among others you may decide to use: 1. Adequacy and appropriateness of title 2. Abstract contains purpose of research, key results and conclusions 3. Paper includes clear description of background material and experimental procedures 4. Results and discussion are clear and supported by experimental data 5. Quality and relevance of tables and figures 6. Clarity and logic of organization 7. Inadequate or excessive length of the manuscript The AOAC staff is expert at copy editing poorly written material that deserves to be published on its technical merit. Poorly written papers should be reviewed for scientific content, if possible, and problems of clarity of presentation should be noted.