Bill > SB68

This bill amends California's food safety regulations by adding sesame to the list of major food allergens and introducing new menu labeling requirements for food facilities. Starting July 1, 2026, food facilities that are part of a chain with 20 or more locations will be required to provide written notification of major food allergens for each menu item, either directly on their menu or through a digital format like a QR code. If using a digital method, facilities must also offer an alternative way for customers to access allergen information, such as an allergen chart or booklet. The bill allows food facilities to use either the common names of allergens or standardized pictograms to communicate their presence. The new requirements do not apply to compact mobile food operations, nonpermanent food facilities, or prepackaged foods already subject to federal labeling requirements. Enforcement agencies can verify compliance through visual inspections or other reasonable methods. The bill also clarifies that these new provisions do not alter existing duties of food facilities to ensure patron safety. Importantly, the bill maintains existing requirements for food facility staff to have knowledge about major food allergens and their potential health impacts.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB68