The Safe and Local Supplier Approval (SALSA) scheme will be officially launched this week by at the International Food Exhibition at Docklands’ Excell.

Sustainable Farming and Food Minister Lord Jeff Rooker will launch the scheme at the show on Monday 19 March.

SALSA, developed by the BHA (British Hospitality Association), BRC (British Retail Consortium), FDF (Food and Drink Federation) and NFU (National Farmer Union), will work with the local producers to ensure they have good food safety procedures in place.

Previously there was no national scheme, but now members of SALSA will need to meet the necessary legislative requirements.

Under the SALSA scheme, producers and processors will be able to achieve and display their credentials to all potential buyers. This scheme will be web based and will provide information for suppliers, buyers, assessors and administrators and thus will open new opportunities for all of them.

Administrated by the Institute of Food Science Technology (IST), the website will provide central guidance and will oversee the auditing and accreditation process.

For further information or apply to the SALSA scheme, go to www.salsafood.co.uk, or e-mail [email protected]