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IgE Antibody Testing for Common Food Allergens (Screening Panel)

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

This blood test measures levels of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to common foods, helping identify potential allergies. IgE is the immune system’s response to allergens.

Quick summary

["This test helps determine if you may react to certain foods through an allergic response."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
82559-6
Short code
Food Allerg Mix75 IgE Qn
Synonyms
Food Allerg Mix75 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
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 specific to a mix of common food allergens, including but not limited to dairy, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish. IgE antibodies are part of your immune system’s reaction to allergens.

Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?

Your doctor may recommend this screening if you have symptoms like hives, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, or digestive issues after eating certain foods. It can also be used for pre-allergy testing before introducing new foods or in children with suspected allergies.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small blood sample is taken from your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure IgE levels against the listed allergens. Results are typically available within a few days.

What Do the Results Mean?

Positive IgE levels to specific foods suggest a possible allergy. However, a positive result does not definitively confirm an allergy—it may require further testing or elimination of the suspected food to confirm symptoms. False positives can occur, so medical guidance is important.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Understanding IgE Testing

Short name

IgE Food Allergy Screen

Frequently asked questions

How often will I need to retest?
IgE levels can fluctuate over time, especially in children. If you have symptoms or your doctor suspects a change in allergies, they may recommend retesting. Follow-up testing is often needed to confirm or refine allergy diagnoses.
What if my test results are positive but I don’t have symptoms?
Positive IgE results indicate a potential allergic reaction but do not always mean you will experience symptoms. Some people may have sensitivities without noticeable reactions. Work with your doctor to interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Can I eat the foods listed while waiting for results?
It’s best to avoid the suspected foods until you have a clearer understanding of your results. If you have symptoms after eating, contact your doctor immediately. They may recommend dietary changes or 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