In October 2025, the state of California enacted the Allergen Disclosure for Dining Experiences Act (the "ADDE Act"). This landmark law requires large multi-location restaurants (those with 20 or more locations nationally) to begin listing the top nine allergens for every menu item from July 2026 onwards.
Why does this matter for UK operators? Because it signals where regulation is heading globally.
What the ADDE Act requires
From July 2026, qualifying restaurants must:
- Clearly identify the top nine allergens for every menu item (whether on printed or digital menus)
- Display that information in a comprehensible way, either directly on the menu or via a QR/digital menu format
- Update those allergen disclosures whenever recipes or ingredients change
- Continue to offer verbal communication for allergy-conscious patrons, along with written accuracy
The law does not yet require "may contain" or explicit cross-contact statements, though such language may feature in future enhancements.
Why this is far-reaching
Although this is US state legislation, it signals a powerful trend: regulators and operators alike are recognising that written, standardised allergen disclosure is no longer optional.
In the UK, operators are already familiar with Natasha's Law (for pre-packed foods) and the updated guidance from the Food Standards Agency in March 2025 for out-of-home allergen information. These regulatory developments align with the expectations behind the ADDE Act — and they highlight how food-service regulation is converging globally.
Looking ahead: the UK and beyond
Legislation such as Owen's Law (proposed in the UK) could follow a similar trajectory: demanding written, consistent allergen disclosure at point-of-order across all dining venues. When that happens, restaurants with robust systems already in place will be well-positioned.
A forthcoming review of the FSA's March 2025 guidance (expected March 2026) may bring further change. Creating an allergen-safe dining environment is no longer just about meeting minimum standards — it's becoming a competitive differentiator.
The question for your business
Will your business be ready when further allergen regulation arrives? Could you turn compliance into an advantage — supporting your guests, enhancing trust, and strengthening your brand?
We don't view allergen labelling as a regulatory burden. It's an opportunity to make dining out safer, more inclusive and trustworthy for everyone.