Expert Review Panel for Kombucha Tea

4. Based on the supporting information, is the method written clearly and concisely? If no, please specify the needed revisions. 5. Based on the supporting information, what are the pros/strengths of the method? 6. Based on the supporting information, what are the cons/weaknesses of the method?

The method is written clearly and concisely for any laboratory or manufacturing facility with basic expertise to follow.

The method simple, fast, high throughput (can analyse multiple samples sequentially, low cost /investment and easy to follow.

The method is not highly specific for ethanol but it is justified. Need an alternative method to investigate OOS or atypical results. Acetaldehyde and sulphite inhibit the reaction.

The samples are to be diluted to get to the working linear range.

7. Any general comments about the method?

This is a good method for routine quality assurance associated with manufacturing. Any lab with basic facility can carry out the test.

The laboratory's need to verify the method to optimise the procedure, especially the calibration range to be within the sensitivity of spectrophotometers.

Do you recommend this method be adopted as a First Action and published in the Official Methods of Analysis of AOAC INTERNATIONAL? Please specify rationale.

I recommend the method for adoption as an AOAC Official First Action method. The method has key advantage as a routine quality assurance testing.