Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood (serum)
- Fasting: Not required
- Turn-around: 2-5 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
Benefits
- Quick diagnosis without needing a doctor's referral first
- Highly accurate FEIA technology measures specific IgE antibodies
- Prevents severe reactions through early allergen identification
- Cross-reactivity detection identifies related vegetable allergies
- Convenient testing at local collection sites nationwide
Who Is This Test For?
- People experiencing allergic symptoms after eating broccoli
- Individuals with suspected salicylate sensitivity reactions
- Those with a family history of food allergies
- Adults and children needing comprehensive allergy evaluation
- People seeking proactive allergy risk assessment
How It Works – Just 3 Steps
- Order online - No doctor's visit required for this direct-to-consumer test
- Visit lab - Get your blood drawn at any convenient local collection site
- Get results - Receive results within 2-5 business days
FAQ
What does this test measure? Specific IgE antibodies to broccoli proteins using Fluorescence Enzyme Immunoassay technology.
Can I eat broccoli before the test? Yes, no dietary restrictions are needed before testing.
Will this detect allergies to other vegetables? Yes, broccoli allergy often cross-reacts with cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts.
How accurate is this test? FEIA technology provides highly sensitive and specific quantitative results (Mayo Clinic 2025).
What if my results are positive? Consult an allergist for confirmation, management planning, and potential immunotherapy options.
Do children need different preparation? No special preparation needed for adults or children taking this test.
More Details
What is the purpose of this test?
This test detects IgE antibodies specific to broccoli allergens in your blood, confirming or ruling out broccoli allergy. The test utilizes advanced FEIA technology to quantify antibodies that indicate immune system sensitization to broccoli proteins or related salicylates (Thermo Fisher Scientific 2025).
Who would benefit from this test?
Anyone experiencing allergic symptoms after broccoli consumption should consider testing. This includes individuals with rashes, itching, respiratory issues, or digestive problems following broccoli intake. The test is particularly valuable for those with suspected salicylate sensitivities, as broccoli contains these natural plant chemicals that can trigger allergic reactions (Cleveland Clinic 2025).
When should I order a Broccoli Allergy IgE test?
Order this test if you experience allergic symptoms like hives, swelling, breathing difficulties, or gastrointestinal issues shortly after eating broccoli. Testing is also recommended before starting any immunotherapy treatment or when evaluating cross-reactivity with related Brassica family vegetables.
How do I interpret the results?
IgE Level < 0.10 kU/L
- What it means: Negative – No sensitization
- Typical action: Broccoli likely safe to consume
IgE Level 0.10–0.69 kU/L
- What it means: Borderline – Minimal sensitization
- Typical action: Monitor symptoms, consider retesting
IgE Level 0.70–3.49 kU/L
- What it means: Positive – Low to moderate allergy
- Typical action: Avoid broccoli, consult allergist
IgE Level 3.50–17.49 kU/L
- What it means: Positive – Moderate to high allergy
- Typical action: Strict avoidance, carry epinephrine
IgE Level ≥ 17.50 kU/L
- What it means: Strongly positive – High allergy risk
- Typical action: Complete avoidance, emergency plan
Results must be interpreted alongside clinical symptoms for accurate diagnosis (Mayo Clinic Labs 2025).
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Pre-test preparation
No fasting is required for this blood test. However, inform your healthcare provider about any immunosuppressive medications you're taking, as they may affect test results. Continue your normal diet and activities before testing.
How often should I get tested?
- Initial diagnosis: Once, then as symptoms change
- Monitoring during immunotherapy: Every 6–12 months
- Suspected allergy development: When new symptoms appear
- Children with positive results: Every 1–2 years to track changes
Why early detection matters
Early identification of broccoli allergy prevents accidental exposure and severe reactions, including anaphylaxis. Food allergies affect approximately 32 million Americans, with severe reactions sending someone to the emergency room every three minutes (NIH 2024). Testing provides safer screening compared to risky oral food challenges while enabling proactive dietary management.
Related tests you may consider
Allergen Profile, Vegetable I Blood Test - Measures the IgE antibody levels in the blood to detect an allergy to several common vegetables.
IgG Food Antibodies (87 IgG Foods + Total IgE) - Genova Test Kit - Measures antibodies to 87 commonly consumed foods and provides a total IgE measurement to screen for food allergies or sensitivities.
Cauliflower Allergy IgE Blood Test - Measures the IgE antibody levels to detect a cauliflower allergy.
