Senate Bill No. by Senator Boudreaux aims to enhance food allergen awareness in food service establishments in Louisiana. The bill amends R.S. 40:5.5(C) and enacts R.S. 40:5.5(F), requiring that food safety training for food service employees now includes specific food allergen awareness components. These components cover the nature and prevention of allergic reactions, symptoms, major food allergens, and appropriate responses to allergic reactions. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Louisiana Department of Health develop a food allergen awareness poster that must be displayed prominently in food service establishments.

Starting January 1, 2026, food allergen training will be required for the owner or designated employee of a food service establishment upon the renewal of their food safety certificate. The bill also specifies that the food safety certificate must be renewed every five years, and the training programs must be approved by the Louisiana Department of Health. The overall goal of the legislation is to improve public health and safety by ensuring that food service employees are adequately trained to handle food allergens. The effective date for these changes is August 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
SB177 Original: 40:5(C)