Outback Steakhouse, along with other major restaurant chains, is making significant changes to its menu. And, interestingly, this isn’t about introducing new beef options.
As of July 1, California restaurants, including Outback, will need to indicate on their menus whether any item contains one of the nine major food allergens. This move is part of a pioneering California law designed to safeguard millions who suffer from food allergies.
The Dining Experience Allergen Disclosure Act, which goes by the name Senate Bill 68, mandates that restaurants with at least 20 locations nationwide, and one in California, must disclose if their menu items contain allergens like milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, fish, shellfish, and sesame seeds.
Starting July 1, Outback Steakhouse must provide clear allergen information across all its menus, including digital platforms, third-party delivery apps, and drive-thru boards. They can either list the details right next to the dish descriptions or provide them via scannable QR codes.
For those opting for digital displays, it’s necessary to have a physical backup menu or booklet available for customers who don’t use smartphones.
Outback isn’t the only chain hustling to meet this new requirement; Olive Garden, Texas Roadhouse, and Longhorn Steakhouse are also in the same boat.
This legislation, signed into law last year, was introduced by Senator Caroline Menjivar, who referred to it as a “lifesaving” measure for Californians living with food allergies.
