Food Allergy Testing
View All TestsWhat are Food Allergies?
Food allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies a food protein as harmful and produces IgE antibodies against it. Common food allergens include peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish.
Symptoms can range from mild (itching, hives, digestive discomfort) to severe (anaphylaxis). True IgE-mediated food allergies are different from food intolerances, which do not involve the immune system in the same way.
Our blood tests measure specific IgE antibodies to various food allergens. Results are provided directly to you to share with your GP or specialist for interpretation and dietary guidance.
How Testing Works
Choose Your Test
Select from our range of allergy blood tests and book a convenient time at our South Kensington clinic. No GP referral needed.
Nurse Blood Draw
A qualified nurse takes a small blood sample at our clinic. The appointment is quick and straightforward.
Get Your Results
Results are sent directly to you, typically within a few working days. Share them with your GP or specialist to guide your next steps.
Recommended Tests for Food Allergies
Please note: we currently do not see children under 16. If your child needs allergy assessment, please see your GP for referral to a paediatric allergy service. The tests below are for patients aged 16 and over.
Suspect a seafood reaction? See our Shellfish & Fish Allergy Test category hub → for Profile 6 (Shellfish), Profile 7 (Finfish), Profile 11 (Combined) and tropomyosin/parvalbumin cross-reactivity testing.
Allergy Profile 1 (Food & Inhalants)
Profilins
Seed Storage Proteins
Sesame Components
Shrimp Components
Soybean Components
Total IgE
Tropomyosins
Walnut Components
Wheat Components
Why Choose a Diagnostic-Only Clinic?
Unlike clinics that provide both testing and treatment, our nurse-led service focuses solely on accurate diagnostic testing. Because we don't offer treatments or prescriptions, there is no commercial incentive to recommend unnecessary tests — just honest, impartial results you can trust.
Nurse-Led & Impartial
Our qualified nurses collect your sample — we don't prescribe, treat, or have any reason to upsell.
Results You Own
Your results are sent directly to you. Take them to your GP or a specialist to discuss what's best for your situation.
You Stay in Control
Understand your allergy profile, then decide with your healthcare professional what steps to take next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a food allergy and food intolerance?
Food allergies involve an immune system response with IgE antibodies and can cause immediate, potentially severe reactions. Food intolerances typically involve digestive issues and do not involve IgE antibodies. Our tests detect IgE-mediated allergies.
Do I need to eat the suspected food before testing?
No, you do not need to consume the suspected allergen before testing. IgE antibodies can remain in your blood even if you have been avoiding the food.
Which foods can be tested?
Our tests cover a wide range of foods including nuts (peanut, walnut, etc.), wheat, soy, sesame, shellfish, and many more. The ALEX² test screens for over 300 allergens including multiple food items.
Do I need a GP referral for allergy testing?
No. You can book directly with our clinic without a GP referral. Simply choose your test and select a convenient appointment time. If you're unsure which test is right for your symptoms, our team can help guide your selection.
Do I need to stop taking antihistamines before a blood test?
No. Unlike skin prick testing, IgE blood tests are not affected by antihistamines or other allergy medications. You can continue taking your regular medications before your appointment.
What should I do with my results?
As a diagnostic-only clinic, we provide results directly to you. We recommend sharing them with your GP, allergist, or dietitian for interpretation and guidance on dietary management.
Ready to Identify Your Food Allergy Triggers?
Book a blood test at our South Kensington clinic
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