California's new law forces chains to list allergens on menus by July

A new law in California will soon make dining out safer for people with food allergies. Starting 1 July, larger restaurant chains in the Bay Area must clearly list major allergens on their menus. The change aims to reduce stress for customers who face serious risks from hidden ingredients.

The requirement comes from Senate Bill 68, also called the Allergen Disclosure for Dining Experiences Act. It applies to chain restaurants, fast-casual spots, mall food courts, drive-thru boards, and digital menus—including apps and QR-code systems. Smaller mobile vendors, temporary food stalls, and prepackaged items already covered by federal rules are exempt.

Restaurants have three ways to share allergen details: listing them directly on menus, linking to a QR code, or using standard pictograms. The law covers nine major allergens—milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, wheat, peanuts, soybeans, and sesame. However, it does not mandate warnings about shared kitchen spaces or cross-contact risks. Recent federal data shows nearly 7% of U.S. adults and 5% of children had a diagnosed food allergy in 2024. The new rule seeks to help these customers make informed choices without having to ask staff for details each time.

The law takes effect on 1 July, giving chains time to update their menus. While it does not eliminate all risks, it ensures clearer information about common allergens. Customers with food allergies will now have easier access to the details they need before ordering.