What is the Sesame IgE test?

The Sesame IgE test is a blood test that measures immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies specific to sesame proteins. IgE antibodies are produced when the immune system is sensitised to an allergen and can trigger immediate allergic reactions.

This test helps determine whether symptoms are likely caused by a true IgE-mediated sesame allergy, rather than intolerance. It is commonly used alongside clinical history and, where appropriate, other allergy investigations.

Why do I need a Sesame IgE test?

Sesame is a common and potentially severe food allergen, with reactions ranging from mild symptoms to anaphylaxis. Because sesame is widely used in foods and oils, identifying allergy risk is important for avoidance and safety planning.

Testing is particularly useful when reactions are inconsistent, exposure is unclear, or when assessing allergy in children or adults with suspected food reactions.

You may need this test if you experience:

• Hives, itching, or skin rash after eating sesame
• Lip, tongue, or throat swelling
• Wheezing, cough, or breathing difficulty
• Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain after exposure
• Symptoms after eating foods containing tahini or sesame oil
• Suspected food allergy without a clear trigger

Benefits of the Sesame IgE test

1. Identifies IgE-mediated sesame allergy
   Confirms allergic sensitisation to sesame proteins.
2. Supports diagnosis of food allergy
   Helps differentiate allergy from intolerance.
3. Improves dietary safety
   Guides avoidance of sesame-containing foods.
4. Assesses risk of allergic reactions
   Relevant for patients with systemic symptoms.
5. Simple blood test
   No food challenge required.
6. Useful for children and adults
   Suitable across all age groups.
7. Supports specialist referral decisions
   Helps determine need for allergy clinic review.
8. Aids long-term allergy management
   Supports education and emergency planning.

Step-by-step – How we offer this test

Option 1: Clinic-based blood test (UK-wide)

• Choose your nearest UK clinic
• Attend your appointment
• A clinician draws a blood sample
• Sample analysed for sesame-specific IgE

Option 2: Home or hotel visit (+£60, UK-wide)

• A qualified phlebotomist comes to your location
• Blood sample taken at home or in your hotel
• No travel required
• Same laboratory processing and reporting

Your results explained

Low or negative Sesame IgE

Low or undetectable IgE suggests no evidence of IgE-mediated sesame allergy.

Typical UK interpretation (negative):

• < 0.35 kU/L

Clinical correlation is still important if symptoms persist.

Borderline or low-positive Sesame IgE

Borderline results may indicate sensitisation without clear clinical allergy.

Typical UK interpretation (low-positive):

• 0.35 – 0.7 kU/L

Interpret alongside symptoms and exposure history.

High Sesame IgE

High IgE levels indicate allergic sensitisation and increased likelihood of clinical allergy.

Typical UK interpretation (positive):

• > 0.7 kU/L

Higher levels are often associated with more significant reactions, but severity varies by individual.