Major food allergens.

Senator Menjivar's food allergen legislation adds sesame to California's list of major food allergens and creates new disclosure requirements for restaurant menus. The measure modifies the California Retail Food Code to align with evolving public health protocols for allergen identification and consumer notification.

Starting July 1, 2026, food facilities serving restaurant-type food must provide written notification of major food allergens present in menu items. Establishments can display this information directly on menus or through digital formats like QR codes. Those choosing digital disclosure must offer alternative methods, such as separate allergen menus or charts, for customers unable to access digital platforms. The requirements apply to all major food allergens: milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, wheat, peanuts, soybeans, and the newly added sesame.

The measure exempts prepackaged foods already subject to federal allergen labeling rules and compact mobile food operations. Food facilities must use either common allergen names or standardized pictograms in their disclosures. Local health agencies retain enforcement authority, with violations constituting misdemeanors under existing retail food code provisions. The legislation includes provisions for state reimbursement to local agencies for certain mandated costs associated with implementation and enforcement.