Food allergies are no longer a rare health issue — they are part of everyday life for millions of people. In the U.S., about 33 million people live with food allergies, and California, with its rich food culture, is no exception. For them, eating out is not just about enjoying a meal — it can also mean risking their health.
That’s why a new California bill, SB 68, is getting so much attention in 2025. If signed into law, it will require restaurants to list major food allergens directly on their menus. This could transform how people with allergies experience dining and make California the first state in the nation with such a rule.
What does SB 68 mean?
The idea is simple: restaurants must clearly label foods that contain the eight most common allergens identified by the FDA:
- milk
- eggs
- fish
- shellfish
- peanuts
- tree nuts
- wheat
- soy
That means updating menus, training staff, and making sure every dish is accurately described.
Why it matters in California
California is one of the most diverse food scenes in the world. From Mexican tacos and Korean BBQ to farm-to-table salads, the variety is endless. But with so many flavors comes hidden risks.
Imagine ordering a salad in Los Angeles. It could have nuts in the dressing, soy in the marinade, or traces of shellfish in the sauce. For someone with a food allergy, one bite could be dangerous.
In fact, the CDC reports around 200,000 Americans end up in the ER each year because of allergic reactions to food. For parents of children with allergies, or adults who live with them daily, dining out can be stressful.
The restaurant industry reacts
Not everyone in the restaurant world is thrilled.
- Large chains will have to spend money redesigning menus and updating systems.
- Small family-run restaurants worry the rule could be expensive and complicated.
But many experts say the cost is worth it. A single allergic reaction in a restaurant can not only harm a guest but also ruin a restaurant’s reputation.
And let’s be honest — diners today already want more transparency. Labels like gluten-free, vegan, and organic are popular. Adding allergen info is just the next step.
Public health comes first
The benefits are clear:
- Fewer hospital visits from allergic reactions.
- More trust between restaurants and their customers.
- Higher standards across the food industry.
For restaurants, this may even open new opportunities. Imagine a place promoting itself as “the safest choice for allergy-sensitive diners.” That’s a competitive advantage.
How Californians feel about it
Reactions are mixed.
- Families dealing with food allergies see this as a long-awaited change.
- Others think it’s “more red tape” for businesses.
But considering how many people live with allergies — and how severe reactions can be — most agree that safety comes first.
Dining in the future
Picture opening a menu and seeing small icons next to each dish:
🌾 Contains wheat, 🥜 Contains nuts, 🥛 Contains dairy.
This system already exists in many European countries and some U.S. restaurants. SB 68 could make it standard in California.
For diners, it means peace of mind. For restaurants, it means higher expectations and more responsibility.
What’s next?
If the bill is signed, the law will take effect on July 1, 2026. California will become the first state to require allergen disclosure in restaurants. And just like with past California health and environmental laws, other states might soon follow.
Final thoughts
SB 68 is not just about rules and paperwork. It’s about making dining safer and more inclusive. It’s about recognizing that food allergies are real, serious, and growing.
California has always been a trendsetter — from banning smoking in restaurants to pushing green energy. Now it could lead the way in food safety.
For some, it’s extra work. For others, it’s life-saving. But one thing is clear: the future of dining in California will be more allergy-friendly than ever before.
