Food Allergy Tests

Organic food and derivative food products bring many health benefits but can also bring some trouble. That is why you need to go through food allergy testing as soon as symptoms arise.

The Big 9 Food Allergens — And Which Tests Cover Them

The FDA recognizes nine major food allergens responsible for
the vast majority of serious food allergy reactions in the
United States. Here is exactly which Personalabs tests cover
each one:

Milk — Dairy Allergy

Cow’s milk allergy is one of the most common food allergies
in both children and adults. Symptoms range from hives and
digestive upset to anaphylaxis. Covered by the Food Allergen
Profile (Basic) and the Allergen Profile Food Blood Test.

Eggs — Egg Allergy

Egg allergy is among the most common childhood food allergies.
Many children outgrow it, but adult-onset egg allergy occurs.
Covered by the Food Allergen Profile (Basic).

Peanuts — Peanut Allergy

Peanut allergy is one of the most severe and persistent food
allergies — rarely outgrown and a leading cause of fatal
anaphylaxis. Covered by the Allergen Profile Nuts Blood Test
which screens for peanuts, almonds, cashews, walnuts, and more.

Tree Nuts — Nut Allergy Panel

Tree nut allergy frequently co-occurs with peanut allergy.
The Allergen Profile Nuts Blood Test covers almonds, Brazil
nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, pecans, and walnuts in a single draw.

Wheat — Grain Allergy and Gluten Sensitivity

Wheat allergy is distinct from celiac disease — it involves
an IgE immune response rather than an autoimmune reaction.
The Allergen Profile Grains Blood Test covers wheat, rice,
barley, oat, corn, and rye. For suspected celiac disease,
the Celiac Disease Profile Blood Test is the appropriate test.

Soy — Soy Allergy

Soy allergy most commonly presents in infants and young
children and frequently co-occurs with milk allergy.
Covered by the Food Allergen Profile (Basic).

Fish — Fish Allergy

Fish allergy is typically lifelong once developed in adults.
Being allergic to fish does not automatically mean shellfish
allergy — they are separate immune responses. Covered by the
Allergen Profile Fish Blood Test.

Shellfish — Shellfish Allergy Panel

Shellfish allergy is the most common adult-onset food allergy
in the US. The Allergen Profile Shellfish Blood Test covers
clam, crab, lobster, oyster, scallop, and shrimp in a single draw.

Sesame — Sesame Allergy

Added to the Big 9 in 2023, sesame allergy affects approximately
1.5 million Americans. Order the Allergen Profile Food Blood Test
for broad food allergy screening that includes sesame.

Reviewed by Edward Salko, D.O., Medical Director, Personalabs

The Role of Food Allergy Testing

Food allergies are diagnosed through food allergy testing. This medical procedure includes a food sensitivity blood test and skin prick testing. In the same way, a food allergy sensitivity test also monitors the degree of immune reaction against a particular allergen.

While common food allergy symptoms provide a helpful reference for diagnosis, an appropriate test seals the diagnosis. With that, you will be prescribed the proper medication and dosage along with a food plan.

So, if you’re asking questions such as “where to get food allergy tests near me?” then you’re on the right track towards controlling your food allergies.

Types of Food Sensitivity Blood Tests

While a skin prick test can be performed in your doctor’s office, in several cases, an allergy blood test is vital for a more precise diagnosis of specific food allergies.

Food sensitivity blood tests often involve screening for immunoglobulin E (IgE), an antibody released in elevated levels when the immune system detects a potential threat.

IgE is produced increasingly because some components, chemical compounds, and proteins in specific foods are mistakenly labeled as harmful foreign substances. These substances are collectively known as allergens.

Specifically, IgE levels are measured in the bloodstream after you consume a specific food. Combined with your noted symptoms, family history, and other vital information, a diagnosis is strongly made.

Aside from the food allergy tests, Personalabs also offer other types of allergy blood tests that detect different types of allergens.

Who Should Get Tested for Food Allergies?

Fortunately, not everyone has a close affinity to food allergies. However, those susceptible to developing the condition need to get tested as soon as possible.

You should secure a food allergy testing if you have the following:

• Allergy symptoms after eating a specific food
• Family history of food allergy
• Other food allergies

When To Do Food Allergy Testing?

Blood tests for food allergies should be taken with a doctor’s order. Usually, it becomes imperative after symptoms such as the following are observed:

• Hives
• Diarrhea
• Swelling
• Abdominal pain
• Nasal congestion
• Lightheadedness
• Itching in the mouth
• Nausea and vomiting
• Trouble with breathing

Those diagnosed with specific food allergies also opt to get tested for allergies from other triggers. For example, if you’re allergic to peanuts, you may want to get tested for allergic reactions against other related food such as soy or tree nuts.

Get Tested for Food Allergies Near You

Food allergies should not be taken for granted. Secure the right test for your health and wellness here at Personalabs.

Look for our partner labs nearest your location as we help you arrange your food allergy blood tests procedure through your account.

Don’t let food allergies get the best out of your health. Order a food allergy test online and skip the hassle.

Frequently Asked Questions: Food Allergy Blood Tests