The New Law, in California, Every Restaurant Needs to Know - SB68
California just signed a new law addressing dining transparency. With the signing of SB 68, restaurants to clearly identify the top 9 major food allergens directly on their menus.
Here is everything you need to know about California's Allergen Disclosure for Dining Experiences Act.
What Is SB 68, and When Does It Start?
The Allergen Disclosure for Dining Experiences (ADDE) Act (SB 68) was officially signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom on October 13, 2025. It makes California the first state to mandate the disclosure of major food allergens on restaurant menus.
The clock is ticking: The effective date for compliance is July 1, 2026.
Who Must Comply?
Required: Restaurant chains with 20 or more locations operating under the same name and offering substantially the same menu items must comply.
Encouraged: Independent restaurants and smaller chains are highly encouraged to make allergen information readily available and accessible to all customers.
The 9 Major Food Allergens
Under SB 68, restaurants must clearly identify if any menu item contains one or more of the following top 9 allergens:
Milk
Eggs
Fish (e.g., bass, flounder, cod)
Crustacean Shellfish (e.g., crab, lobster, shrimp)
Tree Nuts (e.g., almonds, pecans, walnuts)
Wheat
Peanuts
Soybeans
Sesame
Note: This requirement also includes ingredients containing protein derived from these allergens, unless otherwise exempted under federal law.
Displaying the Information: Your Compliance Options
Compliance is mandatory, but flexible. Restaurants can choose a method—or a combination of methods—that ensures the allergen information is clear, accurate, and easily accessible to all guests:
On the Menu: Displaying a clear allergen statement right next to the dish, such as: "Contains: Shellfish, Wheat."
Digitally: Providing a QR code or web-based menu where guests can easily filter and view allergen content for each dish.
Alternative Written Options: Offering an allergen menu, chart, grid, or booklet for guests who cannot access or prefer not to use digital menus.
Why This Matters: Compliance is a Competitive Edge
While compliance may seem like a challenge, transparency is a massive opportunity to build trust and grow your customer base.
Builds Trust & Loyalty: Guests with allergies or dietary restrictions often become repeat, loyal customers when they feel safe and confident dining with you.
Reduces Liability: Clear labelling and accurate information help protect your restaurant from liability and streamline service requests.
Streamlines Service: Waitstaff can focus on hospitality, as diners can self-filter their choices quickly and accurately.
Competitive Advantage: When a selective diner feels confident, they bring their friends, family, and dollars to the restaurant they trust.
Preparing for July 2026: Action Steps
There's no need to wait until the last minute. Restaurants can get ahead of the curve today by taking these steps:
Audit Ingredients: Thoroughly review all recipes and inventory to confirm precise allergen content.
Update Menus: Begin updating both print and digital menu formats to plan for the required displays.
Staff Training: Implement mandatory training on allergen awareness, cross-contamination prevention, and communication.
Create a Process: Set up a system for immediate menu and allergen information updates whenever an ingredient or supplier changes.
The Bottom Line (Powered by Know My Menu)
California’s SB 68 sets a new, essential standard for transparency in dining. Compliance is not just a regulatory hurdle—it’s an opportunity to become a leader in inclusive dining.
Know My Menu helps restaurants and diners connect over safe and informed dining choices. Our digital menu platform makes it easy to display full ingredients, photos, and dietary filters—including allergens, gluten-free, and vegan options—all in real time.
Whether you’re preparing for SB 68 compliance or want to give guests a better experience today, Know My Menu helps you stay ahead with clarity, confidence, and care.
Learn more at https://knowmymenu.com
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Restaurants should consult legal or compliance experts for specific guidance regarding SB 68 implementation.