IgE Antibody Screening Panel (Food Allergens) – Serum
This test measures levels of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in your blood to help identify potential food allergies. IgE is a type of antibody that the immune system produces in response to certain triggers, including some foods.
["IgE antibodies may signal an allergic reaction to specific foods."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 30187-9
- Short code
- Food Allerg Mix5 IgE Qn
- Synonyms
- Food Allerg Mix5 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 detects IgE antibodies against a mix of common food allergens. IgE is part of the immune response and can become elevated when the body overreacts to substances it perceives as harmful, such as certain foods. This screening helps identify which foods may trigger allergic reactions in some individuals.
Why Might You Need This Test?
A food allergy IgE screening may be recommended if you experience symptoms like hives, swelling, digestive issues, or breathing difficulties after eating certain foods. It can also be used to confirm or monitor suspected food allergies before or after allergy testing, such as skin prick tests or oral food challenges.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners or have a history of bleeding issues, let your healthcare provider know. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test if instructed.
What to Expect During the Test
The blood sample is collected and sent to a lab for analysis. The test measures IgE levels against multiple food allergens, including common triggers like milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish. Results are compared to reference ranges to identify potential sensitivities.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated IgE levels to specific foods may indicate an allergic reaction risk. While IgE testing can help identify potential allergens, it does not confirm a diagnosis of food allergy. False positives or negatives can occur, so results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider alongside clinical symptoms and other tests. This screening is often used as part of a broader evaluation for food allergies, especially in children or individuals with suspected reactions.
Short name
IgE Food Allergy Screen
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink anything before the test?
What does a positive result mean?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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