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Food Allergen-Specific IgE, 72-Food Panel (RAST)

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

A blood test that measures IgE antibodies to a panel of selected foods to help evaluate possible food allergy.

Quick summary

["Detecting food-specific IgE can identify possible food sensitization, but results 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
82073-8
Short code
Food Allerg Mix72 IgE RAST
Synonyms
Food Allerg Mix72 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 food allergy panel measures allergen-specific IgE antibodies to a group of 72 foods. These antibodies are part of the immune system's response and may indicate sensitivity or sensitization to particular foods.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test when a person has symptoms such as hives, swelling, vomiting, abdominal pain, wheezing, or other reactions after eating. It may also be used to evaluate suspected food allergies or guide testing and food avoidance planning.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected and analyzed for IgE antibodies directed against the foods included in the panel. The report may list the foods that showed a detectable antibody response.

How do I prepare for the test?

This test generally does not require fasting. Tell the clinician about all medicines and supplements you take, because antihistamines and some other treatments can affect IgE test results. Do not stop prescribed medicines unless your clinician instructs 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 Allergy IgE Panel

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean I am allergic to that food?
Not necessarily. A positive result shows an immune response to the food, but some people have these antibodies without symptoms when they eat it. Your clinician will interpret the result in the context of your history and examination.
Can this test diagnose a food allergy?
It can support the evaluation of suspected food allergy, but it is not a stand-alone diagnosis. The results are considered together with symptoms, other testing, and sometimes an oral food challenge.
Should I avoid foods that test positive?
Do not begin a restricted diet based only on this panel. Discuss positive results with your clinician or allergist, especially if you have never reacted to that food, because unnecessary avoidance can affect nutrition and quality of life.
  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