Southwest Allegheny News

State Representatives Arvind Venkat and Natalie Mihalek have introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at enhancing food allergy safety in Pennsylvania. The proposed legislation would require restaurants and food establishments to include disclaimers about food allergies on their menus. Additionally, posters designed to inform servers about food allergies must be displayed in food preparation and staff areas. The bill also mandates that establishment staff undergo training on food allergy safety.

Venkat emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, "The last thing anyone should worry about while enjoying a meal with their family and friends is having a medical emergency brought on by a food allergy." He added that the measures are intended to protect Pennsylvanians from accidental exposure to allergens and their potentially dangerous health effects.

Mihalek highlighted the unpredictability faced by individuals with food allergies, noting, "The scariest part is that someone with food allergies could do everything right, such as carrying EpiPens and asking questions, and still have a serious problem." She expressed her satisfaction in collaborating with Venkat on this bipartisan effort.

Statistics indicate that over 33 million Americans suffer from food allergies, which result in approximately 200 deaths annually. Nearly half of fatal reactions over a 13-year period were linked to accidental allergen exposure at dining establishments.

An earlier version of this bill received bipartisan support in the state House during the previous legislative session.