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Food Allergen Immunoassay Panel (Screening) – Serum/Plasma

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

This test measures the presence of specific antibodies in your blood that may indicate an allergic reaction to common food proteins. It helps identify potential triggers for allergic symptoms.

Quick summary

A simple blood test to check for possible food allergies.

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
75003-4
Short code
Food Allergen Mix7A IgE Qn
Synonyms
Food Allergen Mix7A IgE Qn
Category
glucose
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
multidisk
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

The test detects IgE antibodies—your immune system’s response to certain proteins found in foods. Each food allergen in the panel is tested separately, allowing your healthcare provider to identify which foods may cause an allergic reaction in you.

How the Test Works

Blood is drawn and analyzed using an immunoassay method (likely a chemiluminescent or fluorescence-based test). This method detects IgE antibodies specific to common allergens like peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish.

Why It’s Done

Your doctor may recommend this test if you’ve experienced symptoms like hives, swelling, digestive issues, or difficulty breathing after eating certain foods. It’s also useful for diagnosing food allergies in children or adults with suspected reactions.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain foods for a few days before testing if your doctor directs it. Fasted or non-fasted blood can be collected, depending on the lab’s protocol.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Food Allergen Screen

Frequently asked questions

This screening test helps confirm suspected food allergies by identifying elevated IgE levels against specific allergens. While positive results suggest a likely allergy, they don’t rule out other conditions or cross-reactivity with similar proteins. Results guide dietary adjustments or further testing (like skin prick tests or elimination diets).
A positive test result means your immune system is reacting to the tested foods, but it doesn’t confirm a diagnosis alone. You’ll need to discuss findings with your doctor to determine next steps, such as avoiding the allergen or additional testing.
How long will I need to avoid certain foods before testing?
Some labs recommend avoiding the suspected allergen for 2–4 weeks before testing to ensure accurate results. However, this varies by provider—always follow your doctor’s specific instructions.
Can this test detect food intolerances (like lactose intolerance) instead of allergies?
No, this test specifically measures IgE antibodies, which indicate allergic reactions, not digestive intolerances. For lactose intolerance or other food intolerances, different tests (like hydrogen breath tests) are used.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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