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Food Allergen Mix 8 IgE Antibodies — Radioallergosorbent Test (RAST)

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

A blood test that screens for IgE antibodies to a panel of eight foods. The foods included depend on the laboratory; results show sensitization, not necessarily clinical allergy.

Quick summary

["This test can identify IgE sensitization to eight foods, but a positive result 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
82077-9
Short code
Food Allerg Mix8 IgE RAST
Synonyms
Food Allerg Mix8 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 IgE antibodies to a group of eight foods, which may be associated with allergic reactions. The specific eight foods vary by laboratory, so review the test report to see which foods were included.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used to help evaluate a suspected food allergy, particularly after symptoms such as hives, swelling, wheezing, vomiting, or abdominal pain following a food. Your clinician may also use it to guide further allergy testing or an elimination plan.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein and tested for food-specific IgE antibodies using a laboratory method commonly called RAST or a related immunoassay. Results are generally reported for each of the eight foods included in the panel.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required. Tell your clinician about your symptoms, suspected foods, allergic reactions, current medicines, and any previous allergy testing. Do not stop medicines, including antihistamines, unless your healthcare professional 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 Allergen Mix 8 IgE

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean I am allergic to all eight foods?
No. The report is interpreted food by food. A positive result means IgE sensitization was detected to that food, and your clinician should interpret it together with the type and timing of your symptoms.
Which foods are included in this panel?
The foods can differ by laboratory and test version. Check the report or ask the ordering clinician for the list of eight foods tested.
Can I use this test to decide which foods to avoid?
Avoidance decisions should be made with your clinician or an allergist. A positive blood-test result alone may not identify a food that is causing your symptoms or confirm that it must be avoided.
  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