Articles
April 14, 2023
Menu labeling regulations are coming back
Operators have until Nov. 7 to be back in compliance with rules
![An upmarket take away shop/deli](png/chalk-board-menu68e2.png)
On May 11, the COVID public health emergency declaration will expire and with it the suspension of menu-labeling enforcement by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In a Federal Register notice, the FDA announced operators will have 180 days – or until Nov. 7, 2023 – to again meet labeling requirements.
Earlier this week, President Biden signed a bill ending the national COVID emergency. This does not impact the expiration of the national public health emergency in May.
What to know about the regulations
The menu labeling regulations require restaurant chains with 20 or more locations with the same name to provide calorie content on menus, menu boards, and other point-of-sale materials and make other nutrition information available in writing on request. The FDA encouraged operators to continue to comply with the menu-labeling rules during the coronavirus health crisis but have not been enforcing the requirements.
Where to get more information
The FDA has resources to help operators understand these requirements. The agency’s online education module explains which establishments and foods are covered by the menu labeling regulations and how best to comply. The FDA also published two fact sheets on menu labeling and declaring calories.
Earlier this week, President Biden signed a bill ending the national COVID emergency. This does not impact the expiration of the national public health emergency in May.
What to know about the regulations
The menu labeling regulations require restaurant chains with 20 or more locations with the same name to provide calorie content on menus, menu boards, and other point-of-sale materials and make other nutrition information available in writing on request. The FDA encouraged operators to continue to comply with the menu-labeling rules during the coronavirus health crisis but have not been enforcing the requirements.
Where to get more information
The FDA has resources to help operators understand these requirements. The agency’s online education module explains which establishments and foods are covered by the menu labeling regulations and how best to comply. The FDA also published two fact sheets on menu labeling and declaring calories.
- Menu Labeling Key Facts for Industry: General Information
- Menu Labeling Key Facts for Industry: Declaring Calories