Expert Review Panel for Kombucha Tea

1. Are the definitions specified in the SMPR used and applied appropriately in the supporting documentation (manuscripts, method studies, etc...)? If not, please explain the differences and if the method is impacted by the difference. 2. Is there information demonstrating that the method meets the SMPR Method Performance Requirements using the Reference Materials stated in the SMPR? If not, then specify what is missing and how this impacts demonstration of performance of the method. method performs within the SMPR Method Performance REquirements table specifications for all analytes in the SMPR applicability statement? If not, please specify what is missing and whether or not the method's applicability should be modified. 1. Based on the supporting information, were there any additional steps in the evaluation of the method that indicated the need for any additional precautionary statements in the method? 2. Does the method contain system suitability tests or controls as specified by the SMPR? If not, please indicate if there is a need for such tests or controls and which ones. 3. Is there information demonstrating that the method system suitability tests and controls as specified in the SMPR worked appropriately and as expected? If no, please specify. 3. Is there information demonstrating that the

The definitions used in the SMPR applied appropriately in the SLV report.

The validation used SMPR recommended reference materials from cerilliant. In addition CRM from BCR Beer and ACQ Science GmbH were used for establishing the method accuracy

Yes, the method demonstrates the performance requirements for the determination of low levels of ethanol in kombucha. The scope of the method is further demonstrated for fruit & vegetable juices and alcohol free beers. The specificity of the method was further investigated. The possible interference were evaluated and justified for the intended use of the method.

Notes on the method specificity should be explicitly stated in the method. All high OOS results should be investigated using more specific methods like chromatography based. n-propanol, iso-propanol, n-butanol, pentanol, hexanol shown cross reactivity with enzyme. Given the fact that these alcohols are in trace levels (1/1000)compared to ethanol, the method is fit for routine QA program. Inhibitory effect of acetaldehyde (>3000 mg/l) and sulphite (>300 mg/l) should also be stated as precaution.

Yes, the method contains blank check samples and controls as specified in the SMPR

Yes, the performance of the method demonstrated by system suitability tests and controls as specfied in the SMPR.