The Allergen Disclosure for Dining Experiences (ADDE) Act requires restaurant chains to provide food allergen information on their menu beginning July 1. Designed by Magnific

SACRAMENTO REGION, CA (MPG) – Effective July 1, California restaurants with 20 or more locations will now have to disclose food allergens under the Allergen Disclosure for Dining Experiences (ADDE) Act.

Restaurants must provide the information on their menu or in a digital format. If they provide it digitally, they can use an allergen list or allergen-specific menu. Restaurants utilizing digital means need to still offer a print option for those who don’t have access to technology.

The allergens are milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, wheat, soy and sesame.

“With food allergies affecting more people each year, the ADDE Act’s simple menu disclosure requirement can prevent potentially dangerous allergic reactions and save lives. Millions of Californians have food allergies,” said Kenneth Mendez the president and CEO of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) president and CEO. “Similar legislation is in place in the European Union and has been since 2014. Allergen disclosure works - it helps provide a better dining experience for people with food allergies and reduces the incidence of food allergy reactions. Not only does this law provide a level of protection for diners, it also helps restaurants attract loyal customers. The legislation is a win-win for California families and restaurants."

AAFA supported and co-sponsored the ADDE Act along with food allergy advocates Robyn and Addie Lao - who at age 9 inspired dozens of other children and teens to rally support for this bill. AAFA helped recruit support from nearly 70 state and national organizations, more than 500 health care professionals, and over a thousand California residents.

AAFA provided testimony in legislative hearings, hosted Capitol lobby days, hosted an informational webinar and advocate trainings, and communicated with the media about the bill’s progress.

“We want to thank all the advocates who wrote their lawmakers, attended legislative hearings in Sacramento, and organized to make this law a reality,” said Melanie Carver, AAFA’s chief mission officer. “Your voices made a difference, and the result will be felt in thousands of restaurants as people with food allergies enjoy dining out with more confidence to navigate food allergens.”

The legislative leader of the bill was Senator Caroline Menjivar (D-San Fernando Valley). As someone who has been hospitalized multiple times due to food allergies, Menjivar understands the challenge presented by dining in restaurants. Her leadership and personal experience helped propel the bill through the legislative process.

“After the bill goes into effect on July 1, 2026, I hope Addie and I can meet up for a meal to see the culmination of our efforts right there in black and white on the menu!” Senator Menjivar said.

For more information about the ADDE Act, visit https://adde.food-regulations.org.