Learn how to show allergens to your guests on menus
The California Allergen Disclosure Law (SB-68, ADDE Act) requires restaurant chains with 20 or more locations to display written allergen information for all menu items. Operators can choose between two compliant disclosure methods: Common Names or Standardized Pictograms.
This choice affects not only menu design but also how allergen systems and data feeds connect. By July 1 2026, every menu format — printed, digital, and alternate written copies — must follow the same chosen approach at every California site.
Two approved disclosure methods
This table summarises the two SB-68-approved methods, highlighting format, pros, cons, and practical considerations for menus.
| Option | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Common / Usual Names (Text-Based) | Lists allergens by name next to or beneath each menu item. Familiar to staff and integrates easily with digital systems. | Accuracy and clarity: guests see exact allergen names, reducing confusion and ambiguity for customers with severe allergies. | Menu space: text listings can crowd printed menus if items contain multiple allergens. |
| Standardized Pictograms (Visual) | Uses simple icons (e.g., peanut symbol for “Peanuts”) to make menus cleaner and easier to scan, especially for guests with limited English proficiency. | Visual efficiency: icons reduce text clutter and allow guests to identify allergens quickly on both printed and digital menus. | Standardization required: icons must follow SB-68 rules. Must include a legend linking each icon to its allergen (e.g., 🌾 = WHEAT). |
Best practice: the hybrid strategy
Because SB-68 also requires an “alternate written format” (a printed chart or binder for inspectors and guests), most operators benefit from using both methods together. This hybrid approach combines the visual clarity of pictograms with the audit-ready reliability of text listings.
| Disclosure Format | Recommended Strategy |
|---|---|
| Digital Menu (QR Code or App) | Use standardized pictograms for quick scanning, with links to detailed text-based allergen statements. |
| Printed Menu | Display pictograms beside each dish and include a clear allergen key or legend at the bottom of the page. |
| Alternate Written Format (Binder or Chart) | List full allergen names in a structured table or grid for inspectors and guests — this serves as the “master record.” |
The most common SB-68 violation is inconsistency between printed menus, digital platforms, and written reference files. Look for a food or menu data management system that allows you to export your real-time data and allergens in multiple formats (i.e. digital menu, QR codes, print menus, allergen matrices).
Consistent allergen disclosure across all menu formats—text or pictogram—is essential for compliance and customer safety under SB-68.
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Access practical tools and expert resources to help you maintain consistency across digital, printed, and written allergen menus under SB-68.
Ask your question to an expert Download resources See official legislationContext: California Senate Bill 68 (ADDE Act) mandates allergen disclosure for restaurant chains with 20 or more locations by July 1 2026. It amends Section 113820.5 and adds Section 114093.5 to the California Health and Safety Code (HSC).