California's new law forces chains to reveal menu allergens by July

A new law in California will soon require larger restaurant chains to clearly display allergen information. Starting on 1 July, customers with food allergies will find it easier to identify risky ingredients on menus. The change comes from Senate Bill 68, also called the Allergen Disclosure for Dining Experiences Act. The law covers chain restaurants, fast-casual spots, and even mall food courts. It also applies to drive-thru boards, online ordering pages, and QR-code menus. Restaurants must list allergen details directly on menus, through QR codes, or with standard pictograms.

The rules focus on major allergens recognised under California law. These include milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, wheat, peanuts, soybeans, and sesame. However, the law does not require warnings about possible cross-contact in kitchens or shared facilities. Smaller operations are exempt. Compact mobile food vendors, temporary food stalls, and prepackaged foods already covered by federal labelling rules do not have to comply. The goal is to reduce uncertainty for diners with allergies—nearly 7% of U.S. adults and 5% of children had a diagnosed food allergy in 2024.

The new requirements will take effect on 1 July. Larger restaurant chains must now provide clear, written allergen information for each menu item. This should help customers make safer choices when eating out.