Can I book Food Intolerance Test without seeing a GP first?

Yes. Food Intolerance Test is a private service you can book directly with us, with no GP referral and no need to be registered with a nearby practice. If your needs would be better met by a GP or hospital, we will tell you clearly and point you in the right direction.

What happens during Food Intolerance Test?

Only a finger-prick sample is needed, so nothing is taken from your arm. The test takes a few minutes in our private consultation room and is quick and straightforward.

Can I have Food Intolerance Test done in central Edinburgh?

Yes. Food Intolerance Test is available at Forrest Pharmacy, 45 Forrest Road, Edinburgh EH1 2QP, as part of our Allergy Tests. We are in the city centre, a short walk from the Old Town, Southside and Newington, with bus routes stopping nearby. Opening hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Book online or call 0131 225 7770.

Can I just walk in for Food Intolerance Test?

Walk-ins are welcome, and we keep appointments available each day for people who need to be seen quickly. Booking ahead, online or on 0131 225 7770, is the best way to secure a time that suits you. If you are unsure whether this is the right service, ask to speak to a pharmacist when you call.

Food Intolerance Test

A finger-prick test measuring IgG antibody reactions across a range of common foods, useful as a starting point when you suspect something you eat is not agreeing with you.

Sliced banana and mixed nuts arranged on a plate

An assortment of fruit and vegetables on a dark table

Community pharmacies are the first point of contact for everyday healthcare.

NHS

Availability: Private service
Sample: Finger-prick sample
Clinic: Allergy Tests
Referral: None needed
Registration: Not required
Where: 45 Forrest Road, Edinburgh EH1 2QP

Food Intolerance Test, Explained

This measures IgG reactions, which is not the same as a food allergy. Allergy involves a different antibody and a different, usually immediate, kind of reaction. If you have ever had a sudden or severe reaction to a food, that needs proper allergy assessment through your GP, not this test.

What the report gives you is a structured place to start, usually alongside a food and symptom diary and a supervised reintroduction. A pharmacist goes through it with you and is clear about what the readings can and cannot tell you.

Why People Choose Food Intolerance Test

Quick appointment

The sample takes a few minutes. You do not need to stop antihistamines beforehand unless we tell you otherwise.

Reviewed with you

A pharmacist goes through the report with you and explains what the readings do and do not tell you.

Private and unhurried

Seen in a private consultation room, with time to ask questions.

Sensible next steps

If your results point towards something that needs a GP or a dietitian, we will say so and help you get there.

How it Works

What Happens at Your Food Intolerance Test Appointment

Book a slot

Pick a time. We will confirm which sample the test needs before you come in.

Give your sample

Either a finger-prick or a blood sample taken from the arm, depending on the test.

Go through your report

We contact you when the report is back and talk it through, including what is worth acting on.

Booking

Request Your Food Intolerance Test Appointment

Online booking is coming soon. In the meantime, leave your details below and a member of our team will call you back to arrange a convenient time, usually the same day.

Prefer to Call?

Speak to a member of the team directly. We are happy to answer any questions and book you in over the phone.

0131 225 7770

Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Or visit us at 45 Forrest Road, Edinburgh EH1 2QP.

Food Intolerance Test: Your Questions Answered

Can I book Food Intolerance Test without seeing a GP first?: Yes. Food Intolerance Test is a private service you can book directly with us, with no GP referral and no need to be registered with a nearby practice. If your needs would be better met by a GP or hospital, we will tell you clearly and point you in the right direction.
What happens during Food Intolerance Test?: Only a finger-prick sample is needed, so nothing is taken from your arm. The test takes a few minutes in our private consultation room and is quick and straightforward.
Can I have Food Intolerance Test done in central Edinburgh?: Yes. Food Intolerance Test is available at Forrest Pharmacy, 45 Forrest Road, Edinburgh EH1 2QP, as part of our Allergy Tests. We are in the city centre, a short walk from the Old Town, Southside and Newington, with bus routes stopping nearby. Opening hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Book online or call 0131 225 7770.
Can I just walk in for Food Intolerance Test?: Walk-ins are welcome, and we keep appointments available each day for people who need to be seen quickly. Booking ahead, online or on 0131 225 7770, is the best way to secure a time that suits you. If you are unsure whether this is the right service, ask to speak to a pharmacist when you call.

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