The measure is designed to help millions of Americans with food allergies make safer dining choices and reduce the anxiety that often comes with eating out. The rest of the nation will be watching developments in California closely, with the potential for a wider rollout possible in the near future.
Senate Bill 68, officially known as the Allergen Disclosure for Dining Experiences Act, applies to restaurant chains with at least 20 locations nationwide. Covered businesses must disclose the presence of major allergens such as milk, eggs, shellfish and tree nuts whenever they know or reasonably should know those ingredients are part of a menu item.
For diners with severe allergies, that information can be the difference between a safe meal and a medical emergency.
State Senator Caroline Menjivar, a Democrat who authored the bill, says the legislation is deeply personal. She has lived for years with severe allergies to multiple nuts and fruits and understands firsthand how difficult it can be to navigate menus that lack clear ingredient details.
“Soon, the millions of Californians with food allergies, many of whom are young children, will be able to fully enjoy dining out without fear or apprehension at these qualifying restaurants,” Menjivar says. “In turn, these businesses will be able to offer allergen families a unique additional assurance that will drive customers to their establishments.”
Advocates say this new law reflects growing recognition of food allergies as a serious public health issue rather than a niche concern. Food allergies affect an estimated 1 in 10 adults and 1 in 13 children in the United States. Even trace amounts of certain allergens can trigger severe reactions, making clear communication essential on restaurant menus.
Food Allergy Research and Education, a leading advocacy organization, has described the law as a “meaningful step” forward, even if it does not address every challenge faced by people with allergies. The group notes that standardized menu disclosures can reduce accidental exposure and encourage stronger allergen awareness throughout restaurant operations.
For young advocates like nine-year-old Addie Lao, who has severe food allergies, the change is about more than labels. It is about independence and inclusion. Speaking at a legislative hearing during the bill’s consideration, Lao explained how the requirement could make everyday experiences safer and less isolating.
“I have to avoid the foods I’m allergic to since it’s like poison to my body and can harm me,” she said. Clear allergen information, she added, “would make it easier to eat out with friends and family.”
Not everyone in the restaurant industry has embraced the change. The California Restaurant Association has raised concerns about the cost and complexity of compliance, particularly for large chains with frequently changing menus.
While the group has said it is relieved the final law does not apply to small, independent restaurants, it has warned that the requirement could expose businesses to increased legal risk.
In a statement, CEO Jot Condie says the association continues to monitor the law's impact as it is rolled out across the state. “We continue to assess the impacts to those members of ours still subject to the proposed law and are working with them to determine if a change in position is warranted,” he says, adding concerns about the potential for “predatory lawsuits.”
With the law now in force, chain restaurants operating in California are expected to strengthen ingredient tracking, staff training and allergen management practices. For people living with food allergies, the change marks a significant step toward greater transparency, safety and confidence when dining out - and it sets a precedent other states may soon consider following.
To support the implementation of new menu labelling requirements, it is recommended that staff undertake training to ensure their knowledge about allergen management is current.
Userve delivers up-to-date training and practical resources to help individuals and businesses manage food allergens effectively. Our Food Handler and Food Protection Manager programs both include food allergy content, while our dedicated Food Allergen Training offers in-depth guidance for teams that require specialized knowledge.