The Massachusetts Food Allergen Awareness Requirements are part of 105 CMR 590.011 (C), established to enhance food safety in retail food establishments across the state. Launched in 2009, Massachusetts was the first state to mandate comprehensive food allergen awareness training, requiring all food establishments to ensure their staff are knowledgeable about major food allergens and their associated risks. Display of DPH-approved allergen awareness posters, clear labeling on menus advising customers to notify servers of any food allergies, and the inclusion of allergen information on food labels are part of the requirements. Additionally, each establishment must have a certified food protection manager trained in allergen awareness, with certification valid for five years.
Effective January 1, 2023, the US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) updated the list of major food allergens to include sesame. Previous DPH-approved training and posters do not include sesame and do not reflect new information about preventing cross-contact.
Effective October 7, 2024, to better protect people with food allergies, the Bureau of Climate and Environmental Health’s (BCEH) Food Protection Program (FPP) has issued updated guidance on allergen awareness training requirements for food establishments and a new employee poster. Additionally, FPP is clarifying the role of the Person in Charge and their responsibilities to train employees regarding allergen awareness and to be on-site at all times during operation.
Below are more information and links to the guidance, training, and poster, including Food Allergen Awareness Guidance, Food Allergen Awareness Approved Posters, and Food Allergen Awareness FAQs.