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HB 3446

Requires restaurants to notify consumers of major food allergens for their menu items

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bridget Moore

Missouri HB 3446 would require restaurants to disclose major food allergens for each menu item to customers, through labels, staff prompts, or online access.

Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
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Bill Summary · HB 3446

Overview

HB 3446 (2026) from Missouri would require restaurants to notify consumers about major food allergens for menu items. The bill outlines how information should be communicated, who is responsible, and how compliance would be enforced. It is sponsored in part by Bridget Moore as a co-sponsor and was referred to the Emerging Issues committee (H) after introduction.

Primary Purpose and Intent

  • Ensure consumers are informed about major food allergens present in restaurant menu items.
  • Increase transparency in dining establishments to help individuals with food allergies avoid harmful exposures.
  • Provide a standardized requirement that restaurants must communicate allergen information to customers.

Key Provisions and Changes

  • Notification Requirement: Restaurants must disclose major food allergens for each menu item. Major allergens typically align with commonly recognized categories (e.g., peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, eggs, gluten-containing grains, soy, fish, shellfish) though the bill’s text would specify the exact list used for determination in Missouri.
  • Methods of Communication: Allergen information must be readily accessible to patrons, potentially through:
    • Menu labeling (in print or digital formats)
    • Verbal communication by staff upon request
    • Signage or placards at the point of service
    • Accessibility in online menus for takeout and delivery
  • Scope: Applies to dine-in and likely takeout/delivery services offered by restaurants within the state.
  • Compliance Standards: Establishes expectations for how information should be presented (e.g., clarity, readability) and may set standards for updating allergen information when menu items change.
  • Enforcement Mechanisms: The bill would outline penalties or remedies for non-compliance, which could include fines, training requirements, or corrective actions. It may also include an enforcement agency or provision for inspections or audits.
  • Training and Recordkeeping: Restaurants may be required to train staff on allergen information and maintain records of allergen disclosure practices or staff training.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Restaurants, including independently owned eateries and restaurant chains operating in Missouri.
  • Food service staff responsible for menu design, front-of-house service, and customer inquiries.
  • Customers with food allergies who rely on allergen information to make safe dining choices.
  • Possibly online platforms and third-party delivery services partnering with Missouri restaurants, if the bill extends to require online allergen disclosures.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Introduction and First Reading: Introduced and Read First Time on 2026-02-26.
  • Second Reading: Read Second Time on 2026-02-27.
  • Committee Referral: Referred to Emerging Issues (H) on 2026-05-15.
  • The bill’s progression will depend on committee hearings, potential amendments, and floor votes in the House, followed by any Senate action and gubernatorial approval, if applicable.

Potential Impacts

  • Public Health and Safety: Likely improvement in safety for individuals with food allergies by reducing unintentional exposure.
  • Compliance Burden: Restaurants may incur costs related to menu labeling, staff training, and updating systems for allergen information.
  • Consumer Confidence: May enhance consumer trust and satisfaction among diners with dietary restrictions.
  • Legal and Liability Considerations: Clear allergen disclosures could influence liability in cases of adverse reactions, depending on how the bill interacts with existing state health and safety laws.

Note: The summary reflects the bill’s stated purpose and typical features of allergen disclosure legislation. For precise language, definitions, and enforcement details, the bill’s text and any fiscal impact statements should be consulted once available.

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

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