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IgE Antibody Profile for Common Food Allergens (Screening)

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

This blood test measures levels of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies against common food allergens. IgE is a type of antibody that the immune system produces in response to certain triggers, including some foods.

Quick summary

["This test helps identify potential food allergies by detecting IgE antibodies to specific foods."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
50026-4
Short code
Food Allerg Mix30 IgE Qn
Synonyms
Food Allerg Mix30 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 Does This Test Measure?

The test checks for IgE antibodies to a mix of 30 common food allergens. These allergens may include items like dairy, eggs, nuts, shellfish, wheat, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and others. IgE antibodies are part of the body’s immune response and can indicate an allergic reaction risk.

How Is the Sample Collected?

A small amount of blood is drawn from your arm by a healthcare professional. The blood is processed to separate the serum, which is then tested for IgE antibodies.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or digestive issues after eating certain foods. It can also be used to confirm suspected food allergies or guide dietary or treatment plans.

What Are Common Symptoms?

Common symptoms of food allergies triggered by IgE include skin reactions (like hives or itching), digestive issues (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), respiratory problems (sneezing, wheezing, or trouble breathing), or even anaphylaxis in severe cases.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: This test helps differentiate between IgE-mediated allergic reactions and other possible causes of symptoms. Elevated IgE levels to specific foods can guide allergy management, including dietary restrictions or allergy testing for confirmation. It’s important to note that IgE testing alone does not confirm a diagnosis of food allergy; clinical correlation with symptoms and medical history is essential.

Short name

IgE Food Allergy Screen

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means your blood contains IgE antibodies to the tested foods, which may suggest an allergic reaction risk. However, this does not definitively confirm a food allergy. Symptoms and medical advice from a healthcare provider are needed for diagnosis.
Can this test be used for children?
Yes, this test can be used for both adults and children. Blood tests like this are generally safe and can be helpful in identifying potential allergies in younger patients who may not yet show symptoms.
How soon will I get results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on your lab and healthcare provider’s processing times. Follow-up with your doctor to discuss the results and next steps.
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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