What is the Nut Panel test?

The Nut Panel is a blood test that measures specific IgE antibodies to a wide range of nuts and seeds commonly associated with food allergy. IgE antibodies indicate allergic sensitisation and help identify which nuts may trigger allergic reactions.

This panel includes testing for:

• Almond

• Chestnut

• Pistachio

• Coconut

• Sesame seed

• Hazelnut

• Walnut

• Macadamia nut

• Peanut

• Brazil nut

• Pecan nut

• Cashew nut

• Pine nut

Nut allergies can range from mild oral symptoms to severe systemic reactions. Blood-based IgE testing offers a safe alternative to food challenges, particularly for individuals with a history of reactions.

Why do I need a Nut Panel test?

Nut allergies are common and can be unpredictable. Identifying specific nut sensitisation helps reduce accidental exposure and supports safe dietary planning.

This test is especially useful when symptoms are unclear, reactions vary between nuts, or when broad screening is needed.

You may benefit from this test if you experience:

• Itching or swelling of lips, mouth, or throat after eating nuts

• Hives, rashes, or eczema flares

• Gastrointestinal symptoms after nut consumption

• Breathing difficulty or wheezing after exposure

• History of food-related allergic reactions

• Multiple suspected nut triggers

• Family history of food allergy

• Need for dietary clarification or avoidance guidance

Benefits of the Nut Panel test

1. Identifies specific nut sensitisation
   Distinguishes which nuts trigger IgE response.

2. Improves dietary safety
   Helps guide targeted avoidance rather than blanket restriction.

3. Reduces risk of allergic reactions
   Supports informed food choices.

4. Safe alternative to food challenges
   No exposure to allergens during testing.

5. Useful for multiple suspected allergies
   Broad panel covers common nuts and seeds.

6. Supports allergy management planning
   Guides referral and follow-up decisions.

7. Blood-based and non-invasive
   Requires only a blood sample.

8. Helpful for adults and children
   Suitable across age groups.

Step-by-step – how we offer Nut Panel testing

Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)

• Choose your nearest UK clinic

• Attend your appointment

• Blood sample collected by a qualified clinician or phlebotomist

• Sample is sent to the laboratory for IgE analysis

At-home or hotel testing (+£60)

• A qualified phlebotomist visits your home or hotel

• Blood sample collected in a comfortable setting

• No clinic visit or travel required

Both services are available UK-wide.

Your Nut Panel results explained

Negative IgE (no sensitisation)

Negative results suggest no detectable IgE sensitisation to the tested nuts. This makes IgE-mediated allergy unlikely, though non-IgE reactions are still possible.

Clinical history remains important.

UK reference interpretation:

• Negative: <0.35 kUA/L

Low to moderate IgE levels

Low or moderate IgE levels indicate sensitisation and possible allergy. Symptoms may be mild or variable, and interpretation should consider clinical reactions.

Avoidance or further evaluation may be advised.

UK reference interpretation:

• Low–moderate: ≥0.35 kUA/L

High IgE levels

High IgE levels suggest strong sensitisation and increased likelihood of clinical allergy. This may be associated with more significant reactions upon exposure.

Specialist allergy input is often recommended.

UK reference interpretation:

• High: Significantly elevated IgE