RESTAURANT-ALLERGEN DISCLOSURE

104th Regular Session Introduced by Adriane Johnson and 3 co-sponsors

Restaurants must clearly disclose common food allergens in menu items to protect consumers and reduce allergy-related risks.

Added as Co-Sponsor Sen. Rachel Ventura

Summary of SB 3305 (104th Illinois General Assembly)

Purpose and Intent

SB 3305 is an Illinois bill focused on restaurant allergen disclosure. Its central aim is to improve consumer safety by ensuring that diners are informed about potential allergens contained in menu items or foods offered by restaurants.

The bill is sponsored by a group of legislators (with co-sponsors Julie Morrison, Dave Koehler, Adriane Johnson, and Rachel Ventura).

Key Provisions and Changes

Duty to Disclose Allergens: Restaurants would be required to provide clear information about common food allergens contained in menu items. This could include both printed/menu-notes and explanations available to patrons.

Scope of Allergen Information: The bill typically addresses the top common allergens (e.g., milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soy) and may require disclosure for items containing these substances or produced in facilities where cross-contact could occur.

Methods of Disclosure: The bill likely specifies acceptable methods for conveying allergen information, such as:

Menu labeling (print or digital)
Notice at point of sale or upon request
Signage in the dining area or kitchen communications to staff

Enforcement and Compliance: Provisions would outline enforcement mechanisms, which could include:

State or local health department oversight
Penalties for non-compliance or failure to provide allergen information
Possible guidelines or traceable compliance measures for restaurants

Training and Education: Restaurants may be required to train staff or ensure they can accurately answer questions about allergens and cross-contact risks.

Public Health and Consumer Protection Goals: The bill aligns with consumer protection and public health objectives by reducing the risk of allergic reactions and improving transparency in food service.

Affected Parties

Restaurants and food-service establishments offering meals to the public in Illinois.

Restaurant employees and management responsible for menu development, labeling, and customer communication.

Consumers, particularly individuals with food allergies or sensitivities, who rely on accurate allergen information to make safe dining choices.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

If enacted, the bill would specify effective dates for compliance (e.g., a phased rollout or a specific start date after enactment).

It may include transitional provisions for existing menus and ongoing operations to come into compliance.

The bill could provide guidance on enforcement timelines, complaint processes, and inspection protocols.

Potential Impacts

Positive: Enhanced safety for individuals with food allergies; improved consumer trust; clearer communication between servers and customers.

Operational considerations: Restaurants may need to update menus, train staff, and implement systems to ensure accurate and up-to-date allergen information.

Compliance burden: Depending on the final language, there could be costs related to labeling, staff training, and recordkeeping.

Note: The summary above reflects typical elements of restaurant allergen disclosure legislation. For precise language, definitions, specific allergen lists, exact reporting requirements, penalties, and effective dates, please refer to the enacted text of SB 3305 as introduced and any amendments adopted by the 104th Illinois General Assembly.