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Food Allergen-Specific IgE Antibodies, Serum — 20-Food Allergen Panel

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

A blood test that measures IgE antibodies to 20 common food allergens to help evaluate possible food allergy.

Quick summary

["Results can identify foods to which your immune system may be sensitized, but they must be interpreted with your symptoms and medical history."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
24482-2
Short code
Food Allerg Mix20 IgE RAST
Synonyms
Food Allerg Mix20 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 measures allergen-specific IgE antibodies to a panel of 20 foods. The foods included may vary by laboratory, but panels commonly include items such as milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used to investigate suspected food allergy, especially when symptoms occur after eating a particular food. It can help identify which foods are more likely to trigger an allergic reaction and guide evaluation by an allergy specialist.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected and analyzed in a laboratory using an immunoassay. The report usually lists each food allergen with a result and an interpretation of whether antibodies were detected.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required, and you can generally continue your normal diet. Tell your clinician about all medicines and supplements you take, and do not stop prescribed medications without medical advice; antihistamines may affect some allergy testing.

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 result mean I am allergic to that food?
It means IgE antibodies to that food were detected, indicating sensitization. A clinical food allergy is diagnosed by considering the result together with your symptoms and other allergy evaluation.
Can I eat foods that are positive on this panel?
Do not deliberately eat a suspected allergen unless your clinician advises you to do so. Your allergist can help determine which foods should be avoided and whether confirmatory testing is needed.
Why might I be tested even without a reaction after eating food?
Food allergy can occur even when a reaction is not obvious during routine eating. Testing may help evaluate unexplained hives, swelling, digestive symptoms, or reactions reported after food exposure.
  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