Interview with an Auditor

Auditor & Mentor, Sharon Brown joined SALSA in 2021.  We talked about how she has found her first year with the Scheme.

How long have you worked in the food industry?

32 years, I have never worked in any other industry. I was always a real foodie, making novelty and wedding cakes from the age of 15 so my career was always meant to be!

What was your first food job?

My first food job was as a Laboratory Technician at Allied Mills. Working shifts and being involved in all things flour I learnt a lot about the industry and how good quality ingredients are so important in making good quality food.

How do you find working with food producers who have implemented the SALSA Standard?

All my experiences with SALSA producers have been brilliant, they are my favourite audits. They are always so friendly and willing to listen and take on improvements if required. They have a want to produce the best products and there is so much experience out in such a wide range of products.

What is the most important piece of advice you can give a member preparing for an audit?

I would always advise working through the standard systematically, never reinvent the wheel if there is something you can use and ensure you have a reference file to work from. Get everyone involved early on so you get buy-in from your staff as they will be the ones who know the most about the product.

What do you enjoy most about SALSA auditing and mentoring?

Meeting and helping food businesses to ensure they are the best at what they do. I love to leave a site with some useful tips to ensure they feel the day is useful.

What is a key issue facing British food producers in 2023?

I believe the key issues are cost and continuous supply. With the price increases throughout the industry, we must always ensure we still have the right ingredients for the job and are not cutting corners as there is a danger that food safety & quality will suffer as a consequence.

Christmas Food Heaven?

A freshly made puff pastry mince pie made locally… yum yum

Christmas Food Hell?

Overcooked brussel sprouts that have been on the stove since last year!