2025 Food Allergy Tests: Prices from $149 and How to Choose the Right One

If you frequently experience discomfort after eating certain foods, it’s important to understand whether you have a food allergy or sensitivity. Food allergy tests are generally more dependable for identifying problematic foods. Here’s a guide to the best allergy tests available online and in clinics in 2024.

Top Food Allergy Tests of 2024

• Best Overall: Everlywell Food Allergy Test – $149 | At-home finger prick kit with results in 5-7 days
• Best In-Person Blood Test: Labcorp Food Allergy Test – $199 | Blood sample at Labcorp, results in 3-4 days
• Best Hybrid Option: Quest Food Allergy Test Panel – $189 | Blood draw at center or optionally at home, results in 2-5 days

Food allergies, sensitivities, and intolerances can all cause unpleasant symptoms, but their underlying causes differ significantly. Allergies involve immune system reactions that can be life-threatening, while sensitivities and intolerances tend to cause milder digestive or neurological symptoms.

Due to unreliable testing for sensitivities, focusing on allergy testing can provide clearer insights. Below, we break down the differences and explain which tests work best depending on your needs.

Understanding the Differences: Allergy vs Sensitivity vs Intolerance

Food Intolerance and Sensitivity

• Intolerance: Occurs when the body lacks enzymes needed to digest certain foods, leading to digestive discomfort.
• Sensitivity: Associated with immune responses involving IgG, IgM, and IgA antibodies, causing symptoms like joint pain, brain fog, and migraines.

Food Allergy

• Triggered by an immune response involving IgE antibodies.
• Symptoms appear rapidly (within 2 hours) and can include hives, swelling, breathing difficulties, and dizziness.
• Potentially life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.

Note for New York Residents

Due to state regulations, at-home allergy test kits cannot be shipped to New York.

Best At-Home Food Allergy Test: Everlywell ($149)

• Collection Method: Finger prick
• Results: 5 to 7 days
• Tests For: Almond, cow’s milk, egg white/yolk, peanut, shrimp, soy, tuna, wheat
• Discount: Use code “HEALTHLINE25” for 25% off

Everlywell's test checks IgE antibody reactivity to nine common allergens, with samples processed in CLIA-certified labs and results reviewed by independent physicians. A nurse is available to discuss results and next steps.

Labcorp Food Allergy Test ($199): Best Blood Test at Location

• Collection Method: Blood sample at Labcorp center
• Results: 3 to 4 days
• Tests For: Corn, codfish, clam, egg white, milk, peanut, scallop, sesame, shrimp, soybean, walnut, wheat

Labcorp offers a quick, professional blood test with online result access and downloadable reports. Ideal for those preferring in-person sampling with results within days.

Quest Food Allergy Test Panel ($189): Flexible At-Home or In-Clinic Sampling

• Collection Method: Blood draw by phlebotomist
• Results: 2 to 5 days
• Tests For: 15 food allergens including nuts, fish, dairy, and wheat
• Additional Service: In-home sample collection available for an extra fee

Quest offers broad allergen coverage with options for in-person or mobile blood sample collection. Complimentary follow-up testing is provided for abnormal results for some allergens, aiding precise diagnosis.

Why Food Sensitivity Tests Are Not Recommended

Current research shows limited reliability in food sensitivity tests, which often measure IgG antibodies that don’t conclusively indicate true sensitivities. Many medical organizations advise against using these tests for diagnosis.

Instead, professional evaluation including elimination diets and consultation with healthcare providers remains the gold standard.

When to Consider Professional Food Allergy Testing

If you experience rapid onset symptoms such as hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing after eating, seek immediate medical advice. Diagnosing food allergies usually involves skin prick tests, blood tests, or supervised oral food challenges conducted by allergists.

At-home tests may help identify potential allergies but are not diagnostic and should be followed by professional evaluation.

Other Causes of Digestive Symptoms

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Gallstones and peptic ulcers
• Stress and dehydration
• Sleep deprivation and medication side effects
• Food intolerances such as lactose or caffeine intolerance

Steps to Take If You Suspect Food Sensitivity or Allergy

• Keep a detailed food and symptom journal to identify triggers.
• Consult with a doctor or registered dietitian for proper testing and guidance.

FAQs About Food Sensitivity and Allergy Testing

Are food sensitivity tests effective?

Most experts agree that IgG-based food sensitivity tests lack accuracy and produce many false positives. They are not FDA-approved for diagnosing sensitivities.

What is the best method to identify food sensitivities?

Professional guidance through elimination diets and clinical assessment remains the most reliable approach.

How accurate is the Everlywell Food Allergy Test?

It offers reliable IgE allergy screening for common allergens with professional lab processing and physician review.

Final Thoughts

While food sensitivity tests are widely marketed, they are not scientifically validated for diagnosis. Food allergy testing, especially via blood or skin tests reviewed by healthcare professionals, provides more accurate insights. Consult your doctor if you experience symptoms after eating to ensure safe and effective management.

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