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Bill

HB 105

Public Health - Restaurants - Disclosure of Main Food Allergens

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Linda Foley

Maryland bill mandates restaurants disclose major food allergens on menus to protect allergic customers from potentially life-threatening accidental exposures.

Hearing canceled
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 105

Legislative bill overview

HB 105 requires restaurants in Maryland to disclose the presence of major food allergens in their menu items to customers. The bill aims to protect individuals with food allergies by mandating clear allergen information be made readily available at the point of ordering.

Why is this important

Food allergies affect approximately 10% of American adults and can trigger life-threatening anaphylactic reactions. Currently, allergen disclosure practices vary widely among restaurants, leaving allergic customers vulnerable to accidental exposure and potentially severe health consequences.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Restaurants, particularly small establishments, may face expenses updating menus, training staff, and potentially consulting with suppliers to verify allergen information
  • Liability concerns: Unclear whether restaurants would face legal liability if allergen disclosures are incomplete or inaccurate, and how detailed the required information must be
  • Practicality of compliance: Questions about how to handle cross-contamination risks, custom orders, and items sourced from multiple suppliers with varying ingredient lists

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

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