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HB 181

Public Health – Restaurants – Disclosure of Main Food Allergens

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jamila Woods

Maryland restaurants must disclose major food allergens in menu items to protect diners with allergies from potentially life-threatening reactions.

Hearing 2/03 at 3:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 181

Legislative bill overview

HB 181 requires Maryland restaurants to disclose the presence of major food allergens in their menu items to customers. The bill mandates clear labeling or notification systems so diners can identify which dishes contain common allergens like peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish.

Why is this important

Food allergies affect approximately 10% of adults and 7% of children in the U.S., and allergic reactions can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening anaphylaxis. This disclosure requirement directly protects vulnerable consumers by enabling informed dining choices and reducing accidental allergen exposure, which is a leading cause of food-related emergency room visits.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation burden: Restaurants may argue compliance costs are significant, particularly for smaller establishments without digital menu systems, requiring staff training and potential menu redesigns
  • Cross-contamination liability: Unclear language regarding whether restaurants must warn about cross-contamination risks could create ambiguous legal liability or require extensive kitchen modifications
  • Scope and enforcement: Questions remain about which establishments are covered (chains vs. small businesses), how violations are penalized, and which agency enforces the regulation

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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