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IgE Antibody Screening Panel (Food Allergens) – Serum

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

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

Quick summary

["IgE antibodies may indicate a possible food allergy, helping guide further testing or dietary adjustments."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
82555-4
Short code
Food Allerg Mix6 IgE Qn
Synonyms
Food Allerg Mix6 IgE Qn
Category
chemistry
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?

IgE antibodies are part of your immune system’s response to allergens. When your body detects a food protein it perceives as harmful, it may produce IgE antibodies specific to that food. This test checks for IgE antibodies against six common food allergens: milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, and soy.

Why Might You Need This Test?

A doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or digestive issues after eating certain foods. It can also help confirm suspected food allergies or guide allergy testing and treatment plans.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed using an immunoassay method to detect IgE antibodies against the listed food allergens.

What Does a Positive Result Mean?

A positive result means your blood contains IgE antibodies to one or more of the tested foods. This does not definitively confirm an allergy but may suggest a need for further evaluation, such as skin prick tests or elimination diets.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

IgE Food Allergy Screen

Frequently asked questions

How long will it take to get my results?
Results are typically available within 24 to 72 hours, depending on your lab’s processing schedule. Follow-up with your healthcare provider to discuss the meaning of your results and next steps.
Can I eat certain foods before the test?
No specific dietary restrictions are required before this test. However, if you suspect a food allergy, it’s best to avoid the suspected foods for a few days before testing to ensure accurate results.
Does this test cover all possible food allergens?
No, this test focuses on six common allergens. If you suspect an allergy to another food or ingredient, your doctor may recommend additional testing.
  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