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Beefigeigetotal

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This blood test measures antibodies to beef and overall IgE levels to help diagnose beef allergy and assess allergic conditions.

Quick summary

{"The test measures specific antibodies (IgE) to beef protein in your blood","It helps diagnose or rule out beef allergy as a cause of your symptoms","Total IgE shows your overall allergic tendency","A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm","Results help your doctor plan appropriate treatment"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
61331-5
Short code
BEEFIGE
Synonyms
Beef IgE/IgE total %
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST) or red top tube
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
100
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
Immunoassay (Fluorescent Enzyme Immunoassay or Chemiluminescent Immunoassay)
CPT
86003
SNOMED
39513008
Specimen volume
1 mL serum (minimum 0.5 mL)
Stability
Room temperature: 8 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 1 month. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Beef IgE Antibody and Total IgE test is a blood test that measures two things: (1) beef-specific IgE antibodies - these are immune proteins that your body produces when it reacts to beef protein, and (2) total IgE - the overall amount of IgE antibodies in your blood, which indicates your general allergic tendency.

Why might I need this test?

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms that suggest a beef or red meat allergy, such as hives, itching, swelling, stomach problems, or difficulty breathing after eating beef. It may also be helpful if you have unexplained allergic symptoms and your doctor wants to understand your allergy profile better.

How is the test done?

A healthcare professional will draw a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm using a needle. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. You may feel a brief sting or pinch when the needle is inserted, but the procedure is generally quick and well-tolerated.

What do the results mean?

For beef-specific IgE, a positive result means you have antibodies against beef protein, suggesting a beef allergy. The level (concentration) often correlates with the likelihood of a reaction. For total IgE, elevated levels may indicate an atopic (allergic) tendency, while normal levels do not rule out specific allergies. Your doctor will interpret your results together with your symptoms and medical history.

Are there any risks?

The risks associated with this blood test are minimal and include slight bruising, bleeding, or infection at the needle site. Some people may feel dizzy or lightheaded during or after the blood draw.

Reference range

IgE total: 0-100 kU/L (adults); Beef-specific IgE: <0.10 kU/L (negative), 0.10-0.35 kU/L (low/equivocal), 0.36-0.70 kU/L (moderate), >0.70 kU/L (high). Results should be interpreted alongside total IgE and clinical history.N/A

Specimen: serum

No fasting required. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications, including antihistamines, as these may affect results. Avoid testing during active allergic reactions when possible for baseline assessment.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast before this test?
No, you do not need to fast before this test. You can eat and drink normally before having your blood drawn.
Can I take my regular medications?
Most medications do not affect this test. However, always inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and vitamins you are taking, as some drugs (like antihistamines or corticosteroids) may potentially affect test results.
What happens if I'm allergic to beef?
If the test confirms a beef allergy, your doctor will discuss avoidance strategies. This includes reading food labels carefully, being cautious when dining out, and understanding hidden sources of beef in processed foods. If you have a severe allergy, you may need to carry an epinephrine auto-injector.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on the laboratory. Your doctor's office will contact you with the results or discuss them at your follow-up appointment.
Is a positive result serious?
A positive beef-specific IgE result indicates sensitization to beef, meaning your immune system has produced antibodies against beef proteins. Whether this causes symptoms depends on many factors. Your doctor will interpret the result in context of your symptoms and medical history to determine if you have a true clinical allergy that requires treatment.
  1. 1
    American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology - Food AllergySource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Food AllergySource
  3. 3
    Lab Tests Online - IgESource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy