New Jersey Senate Committee Advanced Allergen Bill
The legislation requires restaurants to disclose major food allergens to improve safety for diners.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Allergies
Live Poll
Should restaurants be legally required to provide detailed allergen labeling on their menus?
The New Jersey Senate health committee unanimously passed Senate Bill 3394, which mandates that food service businesses disclose major allergens. The measure aims to increase safety for customers with dietary restrictions.
Why it matters
This legislation seeks to reduce the risk of allergic reactions by requiring transparency on menus, QR codes, or written charts. It aligns with a growing trend of state-level food safety initiatives.
The bill mandates disclosure via physical menus, QR codes, or written charts. The legislation currently follows similar efforts in seven other states that introduced allergen labeling bills throughout 2026.
The players
Patrick Diegnan Jr.
He is a New Jersey state senator who introduced Senate Bill 3394 in February 2026.
Dr. Margie Donlon
She is an assemblywoman who introduced the companion bill Assembly Bill 4826 in May 2026.
Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America
This organization advocates for patient safety and plans to expand food allergy legislation to additional states in 2027.
The details
Under the proposed requirements, dining establishments must provide clear information regarding major food allergens to their patrons. The bill is slated to take effect one year after it is officially signed into law.
Timeline
October 2025: California passed the ADDE Act.
February 2026: Senator Patrick Diegnan Jr. introduced S3394.
May 2026: Assemblywoman Dr. Margie Donlon introduced AB 4826.
July 2026: The California ADDE Act came into effect.
October 5, 2026: The New Jersey Senate health committee passed S3394.
Health Landscape
New Jersey's legislative push follows the implementation of California's ADDE Act, which established a precedent for mandatory allergen disclosure. This movement marks a significant evolution in state-level public health standards for the hospitality industry.
Residents dining out will eventually see standardized allergen information provided through physical menus, QR codes, or written charts. This change is designed to simplify the identification of safe meal options for individuals managing food allergies.
The takeaway
The move toward mandatory menu transparency reflects a broader commitment to diner safety across the country. Diners with allergies should continue to communicate directly with staff while these new disclosure policies work through the legislative process.
What happens next
Senate Bill 3394 will be considered by the state Senate's budget and appropriations committee in a future hearing.
Further reading
Learn more about Allergies in the state of New Jersey.
More information
Find further resources and advocacy information on the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America website.
Live Poll
Should restaurants be legally required to provide detailed allergen labeling on their menus?
