What is the Kiwi IgE test?

The Kiwi IgE blood test measures allergen-specific IgE antibodies directed against proteins found in kiwi fruit. When someone is sensitised, their immune system produces IgE antibodies that can trigger allergic reactions upon exposure.

Kiwi allergy can range from mild oral allergy symptoms to more severe systemic reactions. This test is particularly useful for people who cannot undergo skin prick testing or where avoidance of direct exposure is preferred.

Kiwi allergy may also be linked to cross-reactivity, especially in individuals with pollen allergies (such as birch pollen) or latex sensitivity.

Why do I need a Kiwi IgE test?

Identifying a kiwi allergy helps prevent reactions and guides safe dietary choices.

You may need a Kiwi IgE test if you:

• Experience symptoms after eating kiwi
• Have tingling or itching in the mouth after fruit
• Have swelling of lips, tongue or throat
• Have hives or skin reactions after foods
• Have pollen allergy with suspected cross-reactivity
• Have latex allergy (latex-fruit syndrome)
• Need confirmation before dietary avoidance

Symptoms associated with kiwi allergy include:

• Itching or tingling in the mouth
• Swelling of lips or tongue
• Hives or rash
• Nausea or abdominal pain
• Wheezing or breathing difficulty (rare)

Benefits of the Kiwi IgE test

• Identifies kiwi-specific allergy
  Detects sensitisation accurately.
• No allergen exposure required
  Safer than challenge testing.
• Useful for pollen-food syndrome
  Assesses cross-reactivity risk.
• Supports dietary planning
  Helps guide safe food avoidance.
• Clinically recognised allergy marker
  Used in allergy diagnostics.
• Suitable for children and adults
  Safe across age groups.
• Helpful when skin testing isn’t suitable
  Ideal for eczema or medication use.
• Simple blood test
  One sample, clear results.

Step by step – how the test works

You can access Kiwi IgE testing UK-wide through two options:

1. Clinic appointment
   Attend your nearest UK clinic, where a healthcare professional will take your blood sample.
2. At-home or hotel visit (£60 extra)
   A qualified phlebotomist comes to your home or hotel, so you don’t need to travel.

Your sample is analysed in an accredited UK laboratory for kiwi-specific IgE.

Your results explained

Low or undetectable Kiwi IgE

No sensitisation detected to kiwi.

Typical UK interpretation:

• < 0.35 kUA/L

Moderate Kiwi IgE levels

Sensitisation present; symptoms may occur on exposure.

Typical UK interpretation:

• 0.35–3.5 kUA/L

High Kiwi IgE levels

Strong sensitisation with increased likelihood of allergic reaction.

Typical UK interpretation:

• > 3.5 kUA/L

IgE level does not always predict severity; clinical history is essential.