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Food Allergen Immunoassay Panel (Screening)

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

This test checks for common food allergens in your blood or serum to help identify potential triggers for allergic reactions.

Quick summary

["A simple blood test to detect possible food allergies that may cause symptoms like itching, swelling, or digestive issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
23794-1
Short code
Food Allerg Mix C IgE Ql
Synonyms
Food Allerg Mix C IgE Ql
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 This Test Measures

The test detects the presence of specific antibodies (immunoglobulin E, or IgE) against a mix of common food allergens. Common allergens included may include milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish. This is a screening test and may not identify all possible allergens or reactions.

Why You Might Need This Test

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like hives, digestive upset, difficulty breathing, or other allergic reactions after eating certain foods. It can help determine if food allergies are contributing to your health concerns.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood, or a sample may be collected from a finger prick. If you are taking blood pressure medication or have a history of bleeding issues, let your healthcare provider know.

What to Expect During the Test

The blood sample is collected and sent to a lab for analysis. Results are typically available within a few days. This test does not involve any radiation or invasive procedures beyond standard blood drawing.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Food Allergen Screen

Frequently asked questions

How long will it take to get my results?
Results are usually available within 2 to 5 business days, depending on your lab’s processing times. Your healthcare provider will contact you to discuss the results once they are ready.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
No special diet or restrictions are needed before this test. You can eat and drink normally as usual.
What if my test results are positive?
A positive result means your body has produced IgE antibodies to the tested allergens. This suggests a possible allergy, but further evaluation by an allergist may be needed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the best management plan, such as avoiding the allergen or consulting with an allergist for 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