The ‘Big 9’ allergens that will be labeled on CA menus under new law - The Desert Sun
California's new law expands menu labeling to include the 'Big 9' allergens (adding sesame to the previous Big 8). Restaurants and food service establishments must update menus to disclose these allergens. This affects food manufacturers supplying to California food service, as they may need to provide allergen information to customers.
Aforeworn detected this change in the Food & Beverage Manufacturing (FDA/FSMA/USDA) space on July 16, 2026 and published this briefing so affected operators are forewarned rather than caught off guard. It is rated High urgency. Food manufacturers, beverage makers, co-packers, and ingredient suppliers that sell to California restaurants or food service establishments. should confirm how it applies to their specific situation before acting. There is a time constraint attached: The law takes effect January 1, 2025. Menu compliance is required by that date.. Acting after that point can mean penalties, a lapsed licence, or lost eligibility — exactly the kind of surprise Aforeworn exists to prevent. Aforeworn monitors Food & Beverage Manufacturing (FDA/FSMA/USDA) continuously and turns every detected change into a plain-English briefing like this one, so you always know first. Forewarned is forearmed.
What changed
California now requires menus to label the 'Big 9' allergens (milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, and sesame). Previously, it was the Big 8 (without sesame).
Who it affects
Food manufacturers, beverage makers, co-packers, and ingredient suppliers that sell to California restaurants or food service establishments.
What you must do
Ensure your product labels and spec sheets clearly list all allergens, especially sesame, and provide this information to food service customers so they can update their menus.
Deadline
The law takes effect January 1, 2025. Menu compliance is required by that date.
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