As part of IFE Manufacturing 2026, we’re shining a spotlight on the organisations helping food and drink producers strengthen their operations and scale with confidence. At this year’s Certification Clinic, SALSA (Safe and Local Supplier Approval) will be offering practical advice and guidance for SMEs navigating the world of food safety certification.

Designed specifically for small and micro producers across the UK and Ireland, SALSA provides a proportionate, affordable route to recognised third-party certification. In this interview, the SALSA team explain who the scheme is for, how it differs from larger global standards, the common pitfalls growing brands face, and why certification can be one of the smartest investments an ambitious SME makes.

How would you describe SALSA to anyone unfamiliar with the certification?

SALSA (Safe and Local Supplier Approval) is a UK and Ireland food safety certification scheme designed specifically for small and micro food and drink producers.

It provides a practical, affordable route to recognised third-party certification, giving the producer and their buyers confidence that robust food safety and quality systems are in place.

Who is SALSA designed for, and how does it differ from schemes like BRCGS?

SALSA is designed for SMEs that are growing beyond local supply. Compared with schemes, SALSA is specifically structured for SMEs and more proportionate in scale and cost.

SALSA supports progression to more complex global standards, if required.

For a growing SME, when is the right time to pursue SALSA certification?

SALSA is the right certification for most SMEs at most growth phases.  It is designed for that transition point, where informal processes need to become demonstrable systems.

How should small brands prepare internally before going for their first SALSA audit?

SALSA is one of the best investments a small producer can make, but the key is to approach it with the right mindset:

• Use it as a growth tool, not just a certification. It brings structure, consistency, and confidence to your operation.
• Start with what you already do well. Most of the work is formalising existing good practice.
• Tackle it in small steps. Working through the standard section by section keeps it manageable.
• Ask for support when you need it. Speaking to someone who’s been through the process saves time and stress.
• Test your systems before the audit. Make sure your paperwork matches reality.

Advice from Niamh Condon, Founder of Ocras – SALSA Approved January 2026

Does SALSA provide mentoring or practical support to help businesses meet the standard?

Yes, support is a key strength of SALSA. We provide access to approved mentors who work directly with businesses to prepare for audit. Support can include:

• Review and strengthen HACCP
• Identify gaps before assessment
• Translate the standard into practical actions
• Build confidence ahead of the audit

For many SMEs, mentoring transforms certification from a daunting process into a structured, achievable project.

Are there areas where smaller producers commonly fall short?

Common challenges include:

• Incomplete HACCP validation
• Allergen risk assessments that don’t reflect real-world production
• Gaps in traceability testing
• Over-reliance on informal knowledge rather than documented systems

These are not capability issues, they are usually resource and structure challenges, which can be resolved with the right preparation.

How does SALSA help brands win new business with wholesalers, foodservice operators or regional retailers?

SALSA provides independent verification that a business meets recognised food safety standards.  For buyers, it reduces risk.

Once a producer is SALSA Approved, they are listed in the SALSA Directory where buyers can find them.  This is an opportunity to stand out and clearly demonstrate that their food safety systems have been independently verified.

Why is SALSA taking part in IFE Manufacturing this year?

IFE Manufacturing brings together ambitious food and drink producers looking to grow.

At the Certification Clinic, SALSA will offer practical guidance on audit readiness, mentoring and the right certification pathway, helping SMEs move forward with confidence.

We’re there to provide clarity, practical guidance and realistic next steps.