California's new allergen law transforms chain restaurant menus by July 1

A new law in California will soon change how diners see allergen information at chain restaurants. Starting 1 July, larger food outlets must clearly list major allergens on menus or through digital tools. The move aims to help customers with food allergies make safer choices when eating out. The requirement comes from Senate Bill 68, also called the Allergen Disclosure for Dining Experiences Act. It applies to restaurant chains with 20 or more locations under the same name, offering similar menus. This includes fast-casual spots, mall food courts, drive-thru boards, and online ordering platforms.

Restaurants must now indicate when menu items contain major allergens. These include milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, wheat, peanuts, soybeans, and sesame. The information can appear directly on menus, via QR codes, or through standard pictograms. The law does not cover small mobile food operations, temporary food stalls, or prepackaged foods already labelled under federal rules. It also does not require warnings about potential cross-contact or shared kitchen facilities. Nearly 7% of U.S. adults and 5% of children had a diagnosed food allergy in 2024. Bay Area residents will likely notice these changes when visiting chain restaurants or ordering takeaway.

The new rules take effect on 1 July, giving customers clearer details about allergens in their meals. Larger chains must comply, while smaller or temporary food businesses remain exempt. The law focuses on transparency but does not address kitchen cross-contact risks.