Starting in 2026, California will become the first state to mandate that large restaurant chains list major food allergens on their menus, under a new law signed by Governor Gavin Newsom. The requirement applies to restaurants with 20 or more locations, which must disclose ingredients like milk, eggs, shellfish, and tree nuts if they know—or reasonably should know—they are present in their dishes.

The bill was championed by State Senator Caroline Menjivar, who has severe allergies herself. She said the new law will help millions of Californians, especially children, feel safer when dining out, and it could encourage more customers to support restaurants that provide this transparency.

However, the California Restaurant Association has voiced concerns about the financial and logistical impact on businesses, warning the law could expose restaurants to potential lawsuits. While the group is relieved that smaller establishments are exempt, it is still evaluating the effects on larger members.

The advocacy group Food Allergy Research and Education acknowledged the law isn’t perfect but called it a significant step forward in protecting people with food allergies.

Addie Lao, a child with severe allergies who advocated for the bill, said previously that it would make it easier for her to eat out with friends and family.

“I have to avoid the foods I’m allergic to since it’s like poison to my body and can harm me,” she said at a legislative hearing in April.