IFT’s journals use a single-anonymized peer-review process, meaning that reviewers can see who the authors are, but authors do not know the identity of their reviewers. Reviewers are allowed to voluntarily identify themselves to the author in their comments if they so choose, but the journals will otherwise protect their identities.
Associate Editors search for reviewers based on expertise matching the manuscript topic, using data in the peer review system, Web of Science, and other public databases.
Reviewers are given 2 weeks to complete a JFS manuscript review on the first round, and 1 week on revised submissions. For CRFSFS, reviewers are given 3 weeks on the first round, due to manuscript length.
Reviewers complete a questionnaire form with a text field to enter comments. IFT’s journals do not allow for reviewer attachments, which can reveal the identity of the reviewer in the file metadata. You can save the review form as you go and return to finish your work.
In addition to review by the Scientific and Associate Editors, we strive to secure at least 2 to 3 independent reviews for every manuscript submission that goes through the peer-review process. Sometimes, more reviews are needed.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Belonging: IFT has dedicated itself to four important pillars: diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, with the goal to leverage all four to advance our mission and the science of food. We are committed to fostering diverse and inclusive editorial boards, reviewer pools, and authorship of IFT’s scientific journals. Learn more about DEIB at IFT.