MRT Test Cost in 2026: Complete Pricing Breakdown for Food Sensitivity Testing
Kerry Watson, NTP, RWP
In-House Expert Nutrition Consultant · Updated June 25, 2026
The Mediator Release Test (MRT) is the most comprehensive food sensitivity blood test available, covering 176 substances including 149 foods and 27 chemical additives. At around $695 for the test kit alone, it’s a significant investment. This guide breaks down every fee so you can plan your budget with no surprises.
MRT Test Cost at a Glance
| Component | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| MRT 176 Panel Kit | $695–$699 | Full panel: kit, shipping, prepaid return mailer, lab processing, and LEAP report (Oxford Biomedical Technologies) |
| Blood Draw Fee | $15–$25 | Walk-in lab or mobile phlebotomist |
| CLT Consultation (Initial) | $100–$250 | Result interpretation + Phase 1 food plan by a Certified LEAP Therapist |
| Follow-Up Sessions (4–6) | $100–$200/each | Ongoing LEAP protocol guidance through Phases 2–4 |
| Total (Test + Full Protocol) | $800–$2,000+ | Depends on practitioner pricing and number of follow-ups needed |
What’s Included in the MRT Test Kit
When you purchase the MRT 176 Panel, you receive:
The Blood Test
- 176 substances tested (149 foods + 27 chemicals)
- Lab processing by Oxford Biomedical Technologies
- 4.5mL blue-top tube draw
- Results in 10–14 business days
Your Results Report
- Green / Yellow / Red classification for each substance
- Numerical reactivity scores
- Chemical additive panel (dyes, preservatives, sweeteners)
- How to read your MRT results →
MRT vs Other Tests: Cost Comparison
| Test | Test Cost | Total w/ Protocol | Insurance Coverage | Clinical Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MRT 176 Panel | $695–$699 | $800–$2,000+ | Rarely covered | Most comprehensive |
| IgG Panel (Everlywell) | $199–$299 | $199–$299 | Not covered | Limited — measures exposure, not sensitivity |
| ALCAT | $499–$589 | $500–$900+ | Rarely covered | Moderate — methodology debated |
| Skin Prick (Allergist) | $60–$300 | $160–$550 | Usually covered | Only tests IgE allergies, not sensitivities |
For a detailed clinical comparison of what each test actually measures, see our full guide: MRT vs IgG vs ALCAT →
Does Insurance Cover MRT Testing?
In most cases, insurance does not cover the MRT test directly. Here’s what to know:
- The MRT lab fee is typically paid out-of-pocket directly to Oxford Biomedical Technologies or the ordering practitioner
- The blood draw may be covered if performed at an in-network lab with a doctor’s order
- CLT consultations may be partially covered if the practitioner is a licensed dietitian (RD/RDN) who accepts insurance
- HSA/FSA accounts can often be used for the MRT test and related nutrition consultations — check with your plan administrator
- Superbill reimbursement — Many CLTs provide superbills (detailed receipts) that you can submit to your insurance for potential partial reimbursement
Pro Tip: Use Your HSA or FSA
The MRT test and CLT consultations typically qualify as eligible health expenses under Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA). This effectively reduces your out-of-pocket cost by your tax rate — saving 20–35% depending on your bracket.
Ways to Reduce Your MRT Test Cost
Is the MRT Test Worth It?
The MRT test costs more than at-home IgG kits, but the clinical difference is significant:
$199 IgG Test
- Measures antibody exposure, not actual sensitivity
- High false positive rate
- No clinical protocol included
- No practitioner support
- May lead to unnecessary food avoidance
$695 MRT Test
- Measures actual immune mediator release
- Tests 176 substances including chemicals
- Paired with LEAP clinical protocol
- Guided by Certified LEAP Therapists
- 90%+ reproducibility in split-sample testing
As we explain in our full test comparison guide, IgG antibodies reflect food exposure rather than food sensitivity. The MRT measures what actually matters — whether your immune cells release inflammatory mediators when exposed to a substance. At $695, it costs more upfront than a $199 Everlywell kit, but the clinical accuracy and actionable results make it a fundamentally different category of test.
Ready to Get Tested?
Find a Certified LEAP Therapist who can order your MRT kit and guide you through the full protocol.
Pricing information is based on publicly available data and practitioner surveys as of June 2026. Actual costs may vary by provider and location. Wellbloom is not affiliated with Oxford Biomedical Technologies. This content is for informational purposes only. Reviewed by Kerry Watson, NTP, RWP.
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