New York Restaurant Compliance 2025
New York’s New Allergen & Intolerance Law: What Restaurants Need to Know
As of May 21, 2025, New York restaurants, caterers, and food businesses are required to follow a new law that covers both food allergies and food intolerances. The goal is to keep diners safe and make sure staff know how to handle allergy and intolerance issues.
Here’s your easy guide to what’s required:
1. Post a Staff Notice
Every food business must display a notice in the kitchen or another staff-only area where it’s easy to see. The notice will:
- Tell staff what to do when a customer mentions an allergy or intolerance
- Remind staff how to prevent cross-contact between foods
- Explain what to do in case of an allergic reaction (including when to call 911)
The Department of Health will make these notices available in different languages so staff can understand them.
2. Add a Customer Notice to Menus
Menus—both printed and online—must include a clear message for customers. You have two options:
- Simple Message: “If you have a food allergy or intolerance, please notify us.”
- Detailed Menu Info: List allergen/intolerance details for each menu item.
For online ordering or delivery platforms, the notice must also appear, and you must give customers a way to note their allergy/intolerance when ordering—or list the allergen information by dish.
3. Train Your Team
Staff need to know more than just the rules—they need to practice them daily:
- Always listen carefully if a customer mentions an allergy or intolerance
- Prevent cross-contact (e.g., separate utensils, cleaning prep surfaces)
- Be prepared to act quickly in case of an allergic reaction
4. Keep in Mind the Penalties
If your business doesn’t follow the new law, you could face fines up to $125 per violation.
Why This Law Matters
Food allergies can be life-threatening, and intolerances can make people very sick. By making communication clearer and procedures stronger, New York is aiming to keep dining out safe for everyone.
Action Step for Food Businesses: Review your menus, prepare your staff, and make sure signs are ready to meet the May 21, 2025 law.