California’s new menu law, which requires chain restaurants to clearly disclose major food allergens, is now in effect.
Under the Allergen Disclosure for Dining Experiences (ADDE) Act, chain restaurants with more than 20 locations in California must clearly communicate allergen information to customers through physical or digital menus.
The bill, sponsored by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), is designed to support people with food allergies across the state, but it could also make it easier for people avoiding certain animal products to navigate restaurant menus.
That’s because four of the nine major food allergens recognized in the US are animal-derived: milk, eggs, fish, and shellfish.
Although ADDE currently applies only in California, many experts expect national chains to adopt similar menu updates across their locations rather than maintain different systems by state. If that happens, dining out could become easier than ever for people with food allergies and many plant-based eaters.
“It sets a powerful precedent that will encourage broader adoption across the industry and inspire other states to follow California’s lead,” said Kenneth Mendez, president and CEO of the AAFA. “This is what progress looks like when advocacy, courage, and common sense come together.”
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More laws and regulations are making dining easier for plant-based eaters
California’s new law is part of a broader shift toward making food choices more transparent and expanding access to allergen-free and plant-based options.
At the beginning of 2026, the federal Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, which included provisions from the Freedom in School Cafeterias and Lunches (FISCAL) Act, was signed by President Donald Trump.
The legislation changed the language surrounding milk in the National School Lunch Program to include plant-based milk. “This is more than policy; this is a powerful step toward a healthier world,” Dotsie Bausch of dairy-free advocacy organization Switch4Good told VegNews.
Also in 2025, the New York City Health Department updated its Food Standards for 11 city agencies, including hospitals, schools, and shelters, to remove processed meat and increase the emphasis on plant-based whole foods.
Taco Bell
The new California law could make it easier for families with food allergies—and people avoiding certain animal products—to dine together at major chains like Olive Garden, Taco Bell, and McDonald’s.
“These businesses will be able to offer allergen families a unique additional assurance that will drive customers to their establishments,” said State Sen. Caroline Menjivar, author of the legislation.
Mendez added in a June statement: “Not only does this law provide a level of protection for diners, it also helps restaurants attract loyal customers. The legislation is a win-win for California families and restaurants.”
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Charlotte is a VegNews editor and writer based in sunny Southsea on England's southern coast.
