The Doughball Pizza Company

The Doughball Pizza Company has a long family tradition of crafting dough balls, with recipes passed down since the early 1900s. They specialise in customised dough suited to various pizza styles, using quality flours for tailored pizza experiences.

In 2018, the company sought SALSA certification to demonstrate food safety and quality, access new markets and ensure regulatory compliance. The Doughball Pizza Company views SALSA Approval as a mark of their commitment to food safety. We talked to them about their SALSA journey and asked them what tips they could give new members.

What motivated your company to seek SALSA in 2018?
There are several reasons why we chose SALSA:

• To demonstrate a commitment to food safety and quality standards, which can enhance consumer trust and loyalty. Many retailers and food service businesses require suppliers to be certified to specific food safety standards.
• Open up new market opportunities. Adhering to food safety regulations is crucial to avoid legal issues and potential penalties.
• Ensure compliance with relevant food safety legislation. Implementing a robust food safety management system can help identify and mitigate potential food safety risks, protecting your business from costly recalls and reputational damage.
• Encourage continuous improvement and a proactive approach to food safety within the business.

What have been the main benefits to your company since becoming SALSA-Approved?

• Enhanced Reputation: SALSA certification demonstrates a strong commitment to food safety and quality, enhancing your brand's reputation.
• Increased Market Access: Many retailers and food service businesses require suppliers to be SALSA-certified, opening up new market opportunities.
• Reduced Risk: SALSA certification helps mitigate food safety risks, reducing the likelihood of product recalls and customer complaints.
• Improved Efficiency: The SALSA standard provides a structured approach to food safety management, improving efficiency and productivity.
• Continuous Improvement: SALSA encourages continuous improvement, helping businesses identify and address potential issues.
• Customer Confidence: SALSA certification reassures customers that your products are safe and meet high-quality standards.

How has SALSA Approval impacted your relationships with customers and suppliers?

• Increased Trust: SALSA certification instils confidence in our customers, assuring them of our commitment to food safety and quality.
• Expanded Market Access: Many retailers and food service businesses prioritise SALSA-certified suppliers, opening doors to new markets and opportunities.
• Stronger Partnerships: Our certification has strengthened client relationships and facilitated the forming of new partnerships.
• Supplier Relationships: SALSA certification encourages collaboration with suppliers who share our commitment to food safety and quality.
• Enhanced Supply Chain Management: We can better manage our supply chain and mitigate risks by ensuring compliance with food safety standards.
• SALSA certification has helped us build stronger supplier relationships, leading to more reliable and efficient supply chains.

How does your team prepare for the annual SALSA audit?
To ensure a smooth and successful SALSA audit, our team follows a rigorous preparation process:

• Regular Internal Audits: We conduct internal audits to identify and address potential non-conformities and gaps in our food safety management system.
• Document Review and Update: We review and update all relevant documentation, including standard operating procedures (SOPs), HACCP plans, and training records.
• Employee Training: We provide regular training to all employees on food safety practices, hygiene procedures, and their roles and responsibilities in maintaining food safety standards. Mock Audits: We conduct mock audits to simulate the actual SALSA audit process and identify areas for improvement.
• Corrective Action Plans: We develop and implement corrective action plans to address any non-conformities identified during internal or mock audits.
• Record Keeping: We maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all food safety activities, including training records, temperature logs, and cleaning and sanitation records.

Following these steps ensures that our business is well-prepared for the annual SALSA audit and maintains the highest food safety standards.

What advice would you give other small and local food producers considering SALSA certification?

• Understand the Benefits: Familiarise yourself with the benefits of SALSA certification, such as enhanced reputation, increased market access, and improved food safety practices.
• Assess Your Readiness: Evaluate your current food safety management system and identify areas for improvement.
• Seek Expert Guidance: Consider hiring a food safety consultant to help you navigate the certification process and develop a robust food safety management system.
• Start Early: Prepare for the certification process well in advance to ensure adequate documentation, training, and system implementation time.
• Prioritise Training: Invest in comprehensive training for your staff to ensure they understand and adhere to food safety procedures.
• Maintain Accurate Records: Keep detailed records of all food safety activities, including temperature logs, cleaning and sanitation records, and training records.
• Embrace Continuous Improvement: View SALSA certification as an opportunity for continuous improvement. Regularly review and update your food safety management system to adapt to changing regulations and industry best practices.

Do you want to share anything about your journey with SALSA approval?
As a small business owner, achieving SALSA certification was a significant milestone. It wasn't just about meeting industry standards but demonstrating our commitment to food safety and quality. The certification process was rigorous, but it also forced us to scrutinise every aspect of our operations. This led to a deeper understanding of our processes and identified areas for improvement. One of the most rewarding aspects of SALSA certification has been its positive impact on our business. It has enhanced our credibility, opened doors to new markets, and strengthened relationships with our customers.

However, maintaining SALSA certification requires ongoing effort and dedication. Regular internal audits, employee training, and staying updated on food safety regulations are essential. Despite the challenges, the benefits of SALSA certification far outweigh the costs, and we are proud to be a SALSA Approved supplier.