A Holistic Packaging Efficiency Evaluation Method for Loss Prevention in Fresh Vegetable Cold Chain

Round  1

Reviewer 1 Report

Manuscript ID: sustainability-522744

Title: A holistic packaging efficiency evaluation method for loss prevention in fresh vegetables cold chain

The objective of the study is to evaluate the efficiency of conventional packaging of fresh produce and propose improvements for cold chain management.

How was the target food category selected? What is the dependence of fresh produce quality and shelf life on packaging type? The study is interesting and of scientific value. However some modifications and improvements are strongly suggested in order to be adequate for publication.

How was sample temperature monitored during distribution and storage? What is the connection of the monitored parameters with the quality and shelf life of the packed fresh produce?

What is the effect of the alternative packaging types on the packed food in terms of nutritional value, instrumentally measured quality indices and sensory properties?

The study is rather descriptive, statistical analysis should be performed in order to compare and discuss the obtained data.

Author Response

Please see the attachment.

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Reviewer 2 Report

Authors present results of works on assessing packaging efficiency evaluation method for loss prevention in fresh vegetables cold chain. Topic is certainly of growing importance in the view of current research trends and awareness of societies on importance of food quality but certain issues arise while reading the manuscript that prevent me from accepting the work.

English needs strong revision, there numerous mistakes both of grammar and editorial character – this remark is for the entire manuscript.

Abstract is non-informative, it is too general and presents only positive sites (in Auhors’ opinion) of solution presented.

Introduction is too long and diluted, more strong sentences would do the job of informing readers. Authors write and give references to some generalized sentences but more details are needed.

Line 37: in developed countries as well.

Line 57: explain MAP acronym at first use.

Line 78: which indicators?

Line 112: as presented…

2.1. : was any other way of transportation compared to this standardized cool chain in styrofoam?

Lines 221-223: I do not understand the meaning of this sentence, please rephrase.

Table 1: what papers are used in transport? Are the plastics used reusable?

Table 3: what were assumptions to give such weighs to given parameters?

Lines 356-367: I do not understand the meaning of this paragraph, please rephrase.

Results (despite lack of some information) are sound and justify conclusions taken.

Conclusions lack significant pointing drawbacks and disadvantages of methodology proposed in the manuscript, please elaborate on that.

Author Response

Please see the attachment.

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Round  2

Reviewer 2 Report

Authors have properly changed their manuscript and I recommend its acceptance.