What is the Peanut IgE level test?

The Peanut IgE blood test measures the level of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies directed against peanut proteins. IgE antibodies are produced by the immune system in allergic individuals and play a key role in immediate-type allergic reactions.

This test identifies sensitisation to peanuts, meaning the immune system recognises peanut proteins as allergens. It is commonly used to support the diagnosis of peanut allergy alongside clinical history and, where appropriate, other allergy investigations.

Peanut IgE testing is widely used in both adults and children and is particularly valuable when skin prick testing is not suitable or contraindicated.

Why do I need a test for Peanut IgE level?

Peanut allergy is one of the most common and potentially severe food allergies. The Peanut IgE test helps assess whether allergic sensitisation is present and supports safer dietary and lifestyle decisions.

This test is especially important for individuals with a history of allergic reactions, eczema, asthma, or family history of food allergies. It can also be used to monitor allergy status over time.

You may benefit from this test if you experience:

• Hives or skin rashes after eating peanuts

• Swelling of lips, face, or throat

• Itching in the mouth or throat

• Wheezing or breathing difficulty

• Gastrointestinal symptoms after peanut exposure

• Known food allergy or eczema

• Asthma with suspected food triggers

• Family history of peanut allergy

Benefits of the Peanut IgE level test

1. Identifies peanut sensitisation
   Detects immune response to peanut allergens.

2. Supports allergy diagnosis
   Helps assess whether symptoms are allergy-related.

3. Improves dietary safety
   Guides avoidance strategies when needed.

4. Non-invasive alternative to skin testing
   Requires only a blood sample.

5. Useful for children and adults
   Suitable across all age groups.

6. Supports asthma and eczema assessment
   Food allergies may worsen allergic conditions.

7. Aids clinical risk assessment
   Higher IgE levels may correlate with increased allergy risk.

8. Helps guide specialist referral
   Supports decision-making for allergy specialist input.

Step-by-step – how we offer Peanut IgE level testing

Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)

• Choose your nearest UK clinic

• Attend your appointment

• A qualified clinician or phlebotomist collects your blood sample

• Sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis

At-home or hotel testing (+£60)

• A qualified phlebotomist visits your home or hotel

• Blood sample collected in a comfortable, familiar setting

• No clinic visit or travel required

Both services are available UK-wide.

Your Peanut IgE level results explained

Low / negative Peanut IgE

Low or undetectable Peanut IgE suggests no allergic sensitisation to peanuts. This makes an IgE-mediated peanut allergy unlikely, although non-IgE reactions are still possible.

Clinical symptoms should always be considered alongside test results.

UK reference range:

• Negative: <0.35 kUA/L

Moderate Peanut IgE

Moderate IgE levels indicate sensitisation to peanut proteins. This may or may not be associated with clinical allergy, depending on individual symptoms and exposure history.

Further assessment may be required to determine clinical relevance.

UK reference range:

• Moderate: 0.35–14.9 kUA/L

High Peanut IgE

High Peanut IgE levels suggest significant allergic sensitisation and increased risk of allergic reactions upon exposure. Higher levels are more often associated with clinical peanut allergy.

Strict avoidance and specialist input may be advised.

UK reference range:

• High: ≥15 kUA/L