The launch of SALSA Food & Drink Production Standard Issue 7 marks the latest review of one of the UK’s most widely recognised food safety standards for small and medium-sized food and drink producers.
The standard is reviewed and updated periodically to ensure that it reflects current best practice in food safety and remains aligned with the expectations of buyers, enforcement bodies and the wider food and drink industry. From 1 September 2026, all SALSA Food and Drink audits are now conducted against the new standard, making it essential for members to review their systems so that they comply with the updated requirements.
While many of the existing requirements remain unchanged, Issue 7 places greater emphasis on demonstrating robust food safety systems, risk management and documented evidence of compliance. SALSA have prepared a short presentation on the key changes which can be watched here: ‘Guide to the new SALSA Standards Issues’.
Businesses are now expected to demonstrate more robust risk assessments, stronger control measures and greater documented evidence that food safety processes are effective throughout the production process. New emphasis in SALSA Issue 7 has been placed on staff competency, annual validation activities, and ensuring that critical information such as allergen declarations and product claims are accurate across labels, websites and other marketing channels.
SALSA Issue 7 also introduces several new requirements, including formal management of change procedures for new products, recipes, packaging and process changes. Controls are also now needed for visitor tours and product tastings. In addition, there is an increased focus on food defence, cyber security, product security and incident management, reflecting the ever-changing risks facing food and drink businesses. While many sites may already have suitable controls in place, the new standard requires businesses to provide clearer evidence, stronger documentation and more structured review processes to demonstrate compliance during audit.
For many micro and SMEs, keeping up with changing standards whilst managing production, customer demands and business growth can be challenging. Even when good practices are already in place, manufacturers sometimes need support to complete the gap in the risk assessments, documentation and evidence required to satisfy an auditor. With the new standard now in force, early preparation is key. Some businesses may be considering delaying audit preparation for SALSA Issue 7 due to business pressures (especially in the run up to Christmas), but ZERO2FIVE can help support your business.
ZERO2FIVE supports businesses at every stage of their SALSA journey. Eligible companies can receive funded support through the Welsh Government’s HELIX Programme. Our technical experts can help you understand the implications of Issue 7, identify gaps within your current food safety management system and develop practical solutions that are appropriate for your business.
Our support includes:
- SALSA Issue 7 gap analysis and readiness reviews
- HACCP review and development
- Food fraud vulnerability assessments
- Documentation and record system reviews
- Technical mentoring in the key changes
- Support with staff training and competency development
- Audit preparation
- Practical guidance on demonstrating compliance during certification audits
- Support with corrective actions post SALSA audit
In addition, ZERO2FIVE delivers dedicated workshops and events focused on the key changes within Issue 7, helping businesses understand not only what has changed, but how to implement the new requirements effectively and proportionately.
Start preparing for SALSA Issue 7 today. and contact ZERO2FIVE to help you turn compliance into a successful audit.
Jess Lacey
Technical Manager
ZERO2FIVE Food Industry Centre
