Ensure all guests can safely enjoy your menu – QR codes aren’t enough!
The California Allergen Disclosures for Dining Experiences (ADDE) Act, SB-68 requires restaurant chains with 20 or more U.S. locations to provide written allergen information for every menu item from July 2026.
How Should Allergens Be Shown?
Allergen information should be consistent, legible, and as visible as other menu details. Acceptable formats include:
| Format | Use Case |
|---|---|
| Digital Menu | Online or tablet menus for real-time updates. |
| QR Code Menu | Quick access via smartphones; must be supplemented with written option. |
| Printed Menu | Standard or allergen-specific menus for guests without devices. |
| Combination Digital & Print | Ensures accessibility and inspection readiness. |
| Digital Screens | Displays allergen info in front-of-house; supplement with written material. |
| Other Written Materials | Allergen charts, grids, booklets, binders, or other accessible materials. |
While digital menus and QR-linked disclosures are easier to update, the law requires a written option for guests and inspectors at all times.
Allergen information should be readily available to all customers, without any barriers. As digital menus and QR codes may require having a phone and having internet – these are seen as “steps” or barriers to seeing the allergen information.
What Are “Alternative Methods”
Where allergens are shown digitally, an alternative method must also be provided for customers who are not able to access the digital format. Alternate written formats include any physical or printed version of allergen information. Guests, inspectors, or staff may request them. Keeping a clear, up-to-date written record is a key step in complying with the ADDE Act.
Acceptable formats include the following –
| Written Format Type | Use Case | Compliance Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Printed Allergen Menu | Displayed at host stands or provided upon request. | Ensures accessibility for all guests and demonstrates readiness during inspection. |
| Allergen Chart | Shows allergens by menu item and ingredient source. | Easy comparison and guest reference; aligns with inspection requirements. |
| Allergen Grid | Structured table format per menu item. | Provides clear visual accessibility and consistency across locations. |
| Allergen Booklet | Comprehensive booklet of allergens and ingredient details. | Supports audit readiness and detailed guest queries. |
| Other Written Materials | Binders, folders, or alternative methods accessible to guests and staff. | Demonstrates compliance and operational transparency. |
Integrating Written Allergen Formats into Operations
- Follow the Regulation
Ensure every menu and digital display meets California SB-68 requirements. If unsure, always check the regulation or consult a regulatory expert. - Written Allergens as Standard
Include clear steps for producing, approving, and presenting printed allergen menus or charts in standard operating procedures. - Use Consistent, Verified Data
Confirm allergens match updated recipes. For example, “Milk” may appear as “Caseinate,” and approved icons can clarify allergens for guests. - Maintain Accessibility
Use large, legible fonts, clear terminology, and visual cues so all guests can read and understand allergens quickly. - Train Staff
Ensure front-of-house teams can locate, present, and explain allergen information confidently, supporting both guest safety and inspection readiness.
Following these steps ensures guests can safely access allergen information, fulfilling both legal requirements and best practices for inclusive dining.
Centralize and Simplify Allergen Compliance
Generate digital and printed allergen menus instantly, ensuring consistency, accessibility, and compliance across every location.
Talk to an expert Access resources Read the legislationContext: California Senate Bill 68 (ADDE Act) requires restaurant chains with 20 or more U.S. locations to provide accurate allergen disclosures on all menus by July 1, 2026. It amends Section 113820.5 and adds Section 114093.5 to the California Health and Safety Code (HSC).