California will be the first state in the United States to require restaurants to list major food allergens on their menus. The new law, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, will take effect in 2026 and applies to businesses with at least 20 locations. Restaurants will be required to disclose ingredients such as milk, eggs, shellfish, and tree nuts if they know or “reasonably should know” these allergens are present in their food.
State Senator Caroline Menjivar, who has severe allergies herself, was a driving force behind the bill. “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,” she said when the bill passed in the Legislature. “In turn, these businesses will be able to offer allergen families a unique additional assurance that will drive customers to their establishments.”
The California Restaurant Association has raised concerns about the law’s impact on businesses. The group is relieved that small restaurants are exempt but remains worried about possible legal challenges. “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,” CEO Jot Condie said in a statement.
The nonprofit Food Allergy Research and Education commented that while the legislation is not perfect, it represents progress for people living with food allergies.
Addie Lao, a child advocate with severe allergies who supported the bill, said earlier that it would make dining out with friends and family easier for her.
