Complaints & Appeals Policy

Food Innovation, Function and Sustainability (FIFS) is committed to fair, transparent and responsible editorial processes. Authors, reviewers, readers and other stakeholders may raise legitimate concerns regarding editorial procedures, decisions, publication ethics or other matters relating to the journal.

Editorial Appeals

Authors may appeal an editorial decision when they believe that a significant error has occurred in the evaluation of their manuscript or that relevant information was not adequately considered.

An appeal should provide a clear and reasoned explanation of the grounds for reconsideration and, where relevant, address the scientific or editorial issues underlying the original decision.

An appeal does not guarantee that an editorial decision will be changed. Appeals will be assessed objectively and, where appropriate, may be considered by an editor who was not directly involved in the original decision.

Complaints

Complaints concerning the journal's editorial processes, peer review, publication practices, ethical matters or other journal activities should be submitted through the journal's official contact channel.

Complaints should clearly describe the concern and provide relevant information or supporting documentation where available.

Handling of Complaints

Complaints will be acknowledged and assessed fairly, confidentially and without unnecessary delay. Where appropriate, the journal may seek additional information from the complainant or other relevant parties before reaching a conclusion.

Confidentiality

Information relating to complaints and appeals will be handled with appropriate confidentiality. Information will be shared only where necessary to investigate and resolve the matter appropriately.

Editorial Independence

Complaints or appeals involving an editor or another individual with a potential competing interest will, where practicable, be referred to another appropriate person for independent consideration.

Outcome

The journal will communicate the outcome of an appeal or complaint to the relevant party when the assessment has been completed. Decisions will be based on the available evidence, journal policies and the principles of fair scholarly publishing.