What is the Almond IgE Test?

The Almond IgE Test measures the amount of almond-specific IgE antibodies in the bloodstream. These antibodies are produced by the immune system when it recognises almond proteins as allergens. Elevated IgE levels indicate that the body is sensitised to almonds and may react when exposed through food, cross-contamination or even inhalation in some cases.

Almond allergy is a form of tree nut allergy and can cause symptoms ranging from mild oral irritation to severe anaphylaxis. Because nut allergies often persist into adulthood and can be unpredictable, IgE testing is a crucial part of diagnosis and long-term management.

This test is particularly useful when symptoms occur after consuming nuts, nut-based products or foods processed in facilities that also handle tree nuts. It is also recommended alongside broader nut allergy panels to identify potential cross-reactivity with other nuts.

Why do I need a test for Almond IgE?

You may need this test if you develop symptoms after eating almonds or foods containing almond ingredients, or if you have a history of allergic reactions to nuts. Even mild symptoms can escalate with subsequent exposures, so identifying almond sensitivity early is important for safety.

Testing is also recommended for individuals with eczema, asthma or hay fever, as these atopic conditions increase the likelihood of developing food allergies. Children with known peanut or tree nut allergies are often tested for almond sensitivity due to frequent cross-reactivity.

Symptoms and scenarios where testing is recommended:

• Tingling or itching in the mouth after eating almonds
• Hives, swelling or redness
• Stomach pain, nausea or vomiting
• Wheezing, coughing or breathing difficulty
• Anaphylaxis after nut exposure
• History of other tree nut or peanut allergies
• Unexplained reactions to baked goods or confectionery
• Children undergoing assessment for multiple food allergies
• Individuals with strong family history of allergies

Benefits of the Almond IgE Test

1. Confirms almond-specific sensitisation
   Determines whether symptoms are caused by almond proteins or another allergen.
2. Helps assess severity and risk of reactions
   Higher IgE levels may correlate with stronger clinical reactions, aiding risk assessment.
3. Distinguishes true allergy from intolerance
   IgE testing identifies immune-mediated responses, unlike digestive intolerance.
4. Guides allergen avoidance strategies
   Results help patients understand which foods, ingredients and environments to avoid.
5. Supports management of cross-reactive nut allergies
   Tree nuts often share similar protein structures; identifying almond sensitivity clarifies broader allergy patterns.
6. Useful for food challenge preparation
   Results help clinicians decide whether an oral food challenge is safe or necessary.
7. Provides essential information for school and workplace care plans
   Important for ensuring safety measures in children and adults with nut allergies.
8. Safe, non-invasive testing method
   A simple blood test without exposure to the allergen.

Step-by-Step: How Testing Works

Choose your preferred testing method

You can complete this test at a UK clinic or book a home or hotel visit with a mobile phlebotomist.

Option 1 – In-Clinic Blood Draw

1. Select your nearest UK clinic and book an appointment.
2. A clinician or phlebotomist collects a venous blood sample.
3. The laboratory analyses your sample for almond-specific IgE.
4. Results are uploaded securely to your online account.

Option 2 – Home or Hotel Phlebotomy (+£60)

1. Arrange a visit anywhere in the UK at a convenient time.
2. A qualified phlebotomist collects your blood sample at your location.
3. The sample is packaged and sent to the laboratory under clinical protocols.
4. You receive your results digitally without travelling.

Access your report

You can download your results and share them with your GP or allergy specialist.

Your Results Explained

Low / Negative Levels

A low or undetectable almond-specific IgE level indicates no significant allergy.
Interpretation: unlikely to experience an IgE-mediated reaction to almonds.
However, if symptoms persist, other allergens or intolerances may be responsible.

Normal / Expected Range

IgE levels within the normal range suggest typical immune reactivity, meaning almond allergy is unlikely.
Symptoms may be due to cross-contamination, food additives or other tree nuts.

High / Positive Levels

High almond IgE levels indicate sensitisation and increased likelihood of allergic reactions.
This may explain hives, swelling, stomach upset or anaphylaxis after almond exposure.
Higher values often reflect stronger or more unpredictable responses.