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Berkeley, CA Public Health Rules: Calorie Labeling (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Threshold
20+ US locations
State law
Health & Safety Code 114094
Federal basis
FDA menu labeling rule
Enforcer
Alameda County Environmental Health

Summary

Chain restaurants in Berkeley with 20 or more US locations must post calorie counts next to menu items, following the federal FDA menu labeling rule embedded in the California Retail Food Code that Alameda County enforces.

(a) A food facility subject to Section 343(q)(5)(H) of Title 21 of the United States Code or subject to this section as it read on July 1, 2011, shall comply with the requirements of that section of the United States Code and the regulations adopted pursuant thereto. (b) Notwithstanding the Sherman Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Law (Part 5 (commencing with Section 109875) of Division 104), and to the extent permitted by federal law: (1) Enforcement of this section shall be made pursuant to Section 113713. (2) (A) A violation of this section is, notwithstanding Section 114395, an infraction, punishable by a fine of not less than fifty dollars ($50) nor more than five hundred dollars ($500). A second violation within a five-year period from a prior violation shall be punishable by a fine of not less than one hundred dollars ($100) nor more than one thousand dollars ($1,000). For a third or subsequent violation within a five-year period, the fine shall be not less than two hundred fifty dollars ($250) nor more than two thousand five hundred dollars ($2,500). A food facility shall not be found to have committed a violation under this paragraph more than once during an inspection visit. (B) Alternatively, the enforcement agency may assess a civil penalty of an amount that is no less than or greater than the amounts specified for fines in this paragraph. (d) This section shall become operative only on and after the compliance date specified in the federal regulation implementing Section 343(q)(5)(H) of Title 21 of the United States Code.

Source: Berkeley Municipal CodeView official code

Full Breakdown

Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act section 403(q)(5)(H) requires chain restaurants and similar retail food establishments with 20 or more US locations to post calories on menus, menu boards, and self-service displays. California incorporated the rule into the California Retail Food Code (Health and Safety Code section 114094). Alameda County Environmental Health inspects Berkeley restaurants and can cite operators for missing or inaccurate calorie disclosures, including drive-through boards and online ordering platforms tied to in-store menus.

Violations & Fines

Inaccurate or missing calorie postings can trigger Alameda County Environmental Health correction notices, reinspection fees, and in repeat cases, FDA enforcement letters or civil penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do small Berkeley cafes need calorie labels?
No. Independent restaurants and chains under 20 US locations are exempt, although many Berkeley cafes voluntarily disclose calories or post nutrition information by request.
Does it apply to delivery menus?
Yes. Online ordering and third-party delivery menus tied to a covered chain must show calorie counts that match the restaurant's in-store menu under the federal rule.

Sources & Official References

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