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Food Allergen Mix 16 IgE Antibody Panel, Serum

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

Measures IgE antibodies to 16 food allergens in a blood sample to help identify possible food sensitization.

Quick summary

["A positive result suggests an immune sensitization to a tested food, but it must be interpreted alongside symptoms and medical history."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
82058-9
Short code
Food Allerg Mix16 IgE RAST
Synonyms
Food Allerg Mix16 IgE RAST
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
multidisk
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
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 is this test?

This blood test, sometimes described using the older term RAST, measures IgE antibodies directed against a mix of 16 foods. The specific foods included can vary by laboratory, so the test report should be reviewed for the complete allergen list.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this panel when you have a suspected food allergy, hives, swelling, or unexplained digestive or skin symptoms after eating certain foods. It may also be used to evaluate possible food sensitization before further allergy evaluation.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is drawn and analyzed for IgE antibodies to each of the 16 foods included in the panel. The laboratory generally reports the antibody level for each allergen separately rather than giving one overall result.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required, but follow the testing laboratory's instructions. Antihistamines and certain other medicines can affect allergy testing results; do not stop prescribed medicines unless your clinician tells you to do so.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Food Allergen IgE Panel

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive IgE result mean I have a food allergy?
Not necessarily. It indicates possible immune sensitization, and your clinician must compare the result with your symptoms and other allergy history to determine whether a clinical allergy is likely.
Which foods are included in this panel?
The panel includes 16 food allergens, but the exact combination can vary by laboratory. Check the allergen names printed on your laboratory report.
Do I need to avoid all foods with a positive result?
Do not begin a restrictive diet based only on this test. Ask your clinician or allergist whether avoidance or confirmatory testing is appropriate, especially if the suspected reaction has been severe.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy