California ADDE Act – Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ covers California’s Allergen Disclosure for Dining Experiences (ADDE) Act, including legal requirements, practical guidance, and best practices for allergen disclosure in foodservice operations.
What is the ADDE Act and when does it start in California?
The ADDE Act (SB 68) requires covered food facilities in California to provide written notice of the nine major food allergens in each menu item. Effective date: 1 July 2026.
Which California businesses must comply with the ADDE Act?
Chains with 20+ locations under the same name and offering similar menu items in California must comply. Smaller independent operators are exempt.
Which allergens must be listed under California law?
The nine major allergens are milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, and sesame. Clear names or standard pictograms may be used.
Where must allergen information be displayed in California?
Allergen information must appear on printed menus, menu boards, or digital formats (QR codes), with a written alternative for guests who cannot access digital content.
Can I use only a QR code for allergen disclosure?
No. QR codes must be accompanied by a printed allergen menu or chart to comply.
Does the ADDE Act apply to franchises and multi-brand groups?
Yes, if the chain threshold is met. Compliance responsibility rests with the covered facility or brand in California.
Are any operations exempt in California?
Compact mobile food operations, nonpermanent food facilities, and pre-packaged foods already federally labeled for allergens are exempt under SB-68.
How precise must allergen disclosure be?
Disclosures must clearly identify which of the nine major allergens are present. Cross-contact statements are recommended as best practice but not required.
Does the ADDE Act change staff training rules?
No. ADDE focuses solely on menu allergen disclosure. Staff training is separate.
How is the ADDE Act enforced in California?
Local health agencies inspect facilities for compliance. Penalties follow the California Retail Food Code.
What penalties exist for non-compliance?
Penalties follow the California Retail Food Code, including fines and corrective actions mandated by local health agencies.
Do pre-packaged foods need to comply?
Pre-packaged foods already federally labeled are exempt from ADDE Act requirements.
Can allergen info be combined with other dietary labels?
Yes, as long as the nine major allergens are clearly disclosed and distinguishable from other dietary or nutritional information.
Are digital menus sufficient for compliance?
Digital menus can be used, but a written alternative must be available for guests who cannot access digital content.
Do food delivery platforms need to comply?
Yes, if the platform represents a covered food facility. Allergen information must be available for each menu item.
How should allergen information be formatted?
Disclosures may use clear text or standard allergen pictograms. Clarity and completeness are key.
Are cross-contact warnings mandatory?
No, cross-contact statements are recommended but not required under ADDE Act.
How often must allergen information be updated?
Update whenever a menu item changes ingredients, formulations, or preparation methods affecting allergen content.
Who is responsible for compliance in multi-location chains?
Responsibility lies with the covered facility or brand in California, even in franchise or multi-brand operations.
Are seasonal or temporary menus included?
Yes, any menu available to customers in covered facilities must include allergen information regardless of duration.
Is staff training on allergens required?
No. ADDE Act focuses only on menu disclosure; staff training is governed separately under California food-handler rules.
Do beverage items need allergen labeling?
Yes, if they contain any of the nine major allergens, including certain flavored or dairy-based drinks.
Are custom or made-to-order items covered?
Yes. If a menu offers customization that could include allergens, disclosure must indicate potential allergens in each option.
Can pictograms alone be used for allergen disclosure?
Yes, standard allergen pictograms are acceptable if they clearly convey the presence of each major allergen.
Are QR codes allowed for allergen info?
Yes, QR codes can be used, but a printed alternative must also be provided to meet accessibility requirements.
How should changes to allergen info be communicated?
Facilities must promptly update menus and any digital formats whenever allergen information changes.
Is there a size threshold for exemption?
Smaller independent operators with fewer than 20 locations under the same name are exempt from the ADDE Act.
Does the ADDE Act affect labeling of pre-prepared foods in-store?
Yes, if they are freshly prepared and sold by a covered facility, allergen information must be provided.
How does enforcement occur in California?
Local health agencies inspect facilities for compliance and apply penalties following the California Retail Food Code.
Are allergen labels required on takeout packaging?
Yes, allergen information should be included on menus and be accessible for takeout or delivery orders.
Can allergen info be abbreviated?
Abbreviations are acceptable only if they are widely recognized and clearly communicate the allergen present.
Are food trucks covered by the ADDE Act?
Compact mobile food operations, classified as nonpermanent food facilities, are generally exempt unless they operate as part of a chain meeting the covered facility threshold.
Do seasonal pop-up restaurants need to comply?
Nonpermanent food facilities, such as seasonal or pop-up restaurants, are generally exempt unless they meet the covered facility chain criteria.
Is allergen disclosure required online?
Yes, if a menu is available online, allergen information must be accessible and match in-store disclosures.
Do food service providers on planes or trains need to disclose allergens?
Generally, no. Food service on planes and trains is considered a nonpermanent food facility under California law, so SB-68 allergen disclosure requirements usually do not apply. Pre-packaged items that are already federally labeled for allergens are also exempt.
However, in some cases, food service on a train or plane could be considered a permanent food facility. Examples include:
- A train dining car that operates daily on the same route.
- An airport restaurant inside a terminal serving travelers.
- A catering service onboard planes operating regularly as part of a larger chain.
Food providers in these situations should check with a regulatory authority to confirm whether allergen disclosure rules apply.
Need a Deeper Dive into ADDE Compliance?
Review the full ADDE Act roadmap for step-by-step preparation.
View the Full Compliance Guide