LabInformationLab tests, explained

Basic Food Allergy Test Panel in Maine

Basic Food Allergy Test Panel can be requested without a referral, and this overview covers what to expect. The Basic Food Allergy Test Panel is a blood test that checks for allergic antibodies to common foods. It is ordered when a person has symptoms after eating certain foods, such as hives, stomach upset, or breathing trouble, to help identify possible triggers. Across Maine, part of New England, the basic food allergy test panel can be ordered directly and collected at a certified site — no referral required.

Sample type
blood
Category
Allergy
Turnaround
1-3 business days
Price
$160
Referral
Not required

The Basic Food Allergy Test Panel is a blood test that checks for allergic antibodies to common foods. It is ordered when a person has symptoms after eating certain foods, such as hives, stomach upset, or breathing trouble, to help identify possible triggers.

What it measures

  • Specific IgE for egg white — Antibody linked to egg allergy.
  • Specific IgE for milk — Antibody linked to cow's milk allergy.
  • Specific IgE for peanut — Antibody linked to peanut allergy.
  • Specific IgE for wheat — Antibody linked to wheat allergy.
  • Specific IgE for soy — Antibody linked to soy allergy.
  • Total IgE — Overall allergy antibody level; not specific to one food.

Who it is for

A clinician may order this panel for adults or children with suspected food allergies, or to monitor known allergies.

Preparation

No fasting or special preparation is needed. The blood sample can be drawn at any time.

Results and what they mean

Results are reported as levels of specific IgE for each food, often as a number or class. A clinician interprets these alongside your symptoms and history; a positive result alone does not always mean a true allergy. This is general information, not medical advice.

Requesting the Basic Food Allergy Test Panel in Maine

Order online, choose a certified collection site in Maine, and review results through a secure portal. No referral is required, and orders are processed confidentially. With short distances between towns that keep most people within an easy drive of a draw site, it pays to schedule your collection in advance.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to stop eating the foods before the test?

No. You do not need to avoid any foods before this blood test.

How long does it take to get results?

Typical turnaround is 1–3 business days after the sample reaches the lab.

Can this test tell me if I have a food allergy?

It shows whether your blood has allergic antibodies to certain foods, but only a clinician can diagnose a food allergy using your symptoms and history.

What if my result is positive but I have no symptoms?

A positive result without symptoms may not mean a true allergy. Your clinician will help interpret what it means for you.

Basic Food Allergy Test Panel by city in Maine

All testing in Maine →   Full Basic Food Allergy Test Panel guide →