What is the Chickpea IgE Level Test?

The Chickpea IgE Level test measures allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies directed against proteins found in chickpeas. IgE antibodies are responsible for immediate (Type I) allergic reactions that occur shortly after exposure to an allergen.

Chickpeas are part of the legume family, which also includes lentils, peas and peanuts. Sensitisation to chickpea may occur on its own or as part of broader legume allergy, sometimes with cross-reactivity between related foods.

This test is commonly used in the investigation of suspected food allergy in both children and adults.

Why do I need a test for Chickpea IgE?

You may need this test if you experience symptoms after consuming chickpeas or foods containing chickpea, such as hummus or falafel. Legume allergies can vary in severity, from mild reactions to more significant systemic responses.

Testing helps determine whether symptoms are due to IgE-mediated allergy rather than intolerance and supports safe dietary planning.

Symptoms and scenarios where testing is recommended:

• Hives or skin rash after eating chickpeas
• Swelling of lips, face or throat
• Abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting
• Wheezing or breathing difficulty
• Suspected legume allergy
• Multiple food allergies
• Childhood eczema with food triggers
• Allergy assessment before dietary exclusion

Benefits of the Chickpea IgE Level Test

• Identifies chickpea sensitisation
  Detects immune-mediated allergy response.
• Supports diagnosis of legume allergy
  Helps distinguish allergy from intolerance.
• Guides safe dietary choices
  Supports avoidance and food labelling decisions.
• Assesses cross-reactivity risk
  Useful when other legume allergies are present.
• Non-invasive blood-based testing
  No allergen exposure required.
• Useful in children and adults
  Commonly used across age groups.
• Supports allergy monitoring
  Tracks changes in sensitisation over time.
• Widely accepted allergy marker
  Standard tool in allergy assessment.

Step-by-Step: How Testing Works

Choose your preferred testing method

You can attend one of our UK partner clinics or arrange 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 sample is analysed for chickpea-specific IgE antibodies.
4. Results are delivered securely online.

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

1. Book a UK-wide home or hotel visit at a convenient time.
2. A trained phlebotomist collects your blood sample on-site.
3. The sample is transported to the laboratory.
4. Results are uploaded digitally without the need to travel.

Your Results Explained

Low / Negative Levels

Low or undetectable chickpea-specific IgE suggests no allergic sensitisation.
This makes IgE-mediated chickpea allergy unlikely.

Moderate Levels

Moderately elevated IgE levels indicate sensitisation.
Clinical symptoms are needed to confirm true allergy.

High Levels

High chickpea IgE levels suggest a higher likelihood of clinical allergy.
Risk of immediate allergic reactions may be increased.

UK reference ranges and interpretation vary by laboratory and age.