Disclaimer: Pinnertest is not a diagnostic test for allergies, celiac disease, lactose intolerance, or any medical condition. It measures IgG antibody levels to specific foods, which may be associated with food intolerance in some individuals. Pinnertest is performed by Microwell Laboratories, a CLIA-certified laboratory. Microwell Laboratories does not provide any treatment, dietary counseling, or after-test support, and we are not permitted to do so. Clients should seek guidance from qualified healthcare specialists and may share their results with them for evaluation and personalized recommendations. Pinnertest and Microwell Laboratories are not responsible for any medical outcomes, dietary changes, or health consequences resulting from the use or interpretation of results. If you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention.
Pinnertest — Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers about how Pinnertest works, what your results mean, and how to use them safely.
What is Pinnertest?
Pinnertest is a scientific food intolerance test that analyzes your body’s IgG antibody reactions to specific foods. Using advanced laboratory technology, just a few drops of blood are tested to detect delayed immune responses that may contribute to digestive issues or other chronic symptoms.
Possible related symptoms can include bloating, headaches or migraines, chronic fatigue, skin issues (like eczema), and general digestive discomfort.
What panels are available?
All panels use the same technology and differ only by number of foods tested:
- Pinnertest 120 — 120 foods
- Pinnertest 200 — 200 foods
- Pinnertest 250 — 250 foods Most comprehensive
What do the results mean?
Results show IgG antibody levels per food:
- Green (Low / No Reaction): < 7.5 µg/ml — generally okay to consume
- Medium: 7.5–19.9 µg/ml — measurable response
- High: ≥ 20 µg/ml — strong response
The highest possible value on the test is 56 µg/ml. A higher value does not necessarily mean worse symptoms — it simply indicates your body shows a stronger immune response to that food. The key takeaway is that your body is reacting.
How is the test done?
- Collect a small finger-prick blood sample at home.
- Place drops on the provided drying card and seal the envelope.
- Mail the sample to our lab (postage usually covered).
- Receive your digital results in about 7–10 business days.
No clinic visit is required.
How do I read the color groups?
Color groups are a quick visual guide:
- Green: No restriction usually needed
- Yellow/Orange (Medium): Consider caution or rotation
- Red (High): Consider avoiding for a period and discuss with your clinician
Do I need to fast?
No fasting is necessary before collecting your sample.
Can I take the test while on a restricted diet?
Yes. If you’ve avoided a food for more than six months, your result for that food may show no reaction because antibody levels can decline without exposure.
Can medications affect my results?
Most medicines don’t affect results. Long-term antibiotics or immunosuppressive drugs may influence outcomes. If you’re unsure, please consult your healthcare provider.
Does Pinnertest diagnose celiac disease or lactose intolerance?
No. Celiac disease and lactose intolerance require different tests. Pinnertest measures IgG antibodies to food proteins and cannot diagnose allergies, celiac disease, or carbohydrate intolerances like lactose.
What is a trial elimination diet?
Remove red-listed foods for about one month, then reintroduce one at a time every 72 hours while monitoring symptoms. If symptoms return, avoid that food and discuss with your clinician.
Important: Never reintroduce a known allergen without medical supervision. Seek urgent care for signs of severe reaction (swelling, breathing difficulty, hives).
Is Pinnertest suitable for children?
Generally yes for children aged 3+ with guidance from a healthcare professional. For younger children, results should be interpreted with extra care.
Why does a food show up if I’ve never eaten it?
Ingredients can appear in unexpected places — ready-made foods, drinks, or supplements — sometimes under different names. Even very small amounts can sometimes be enough to trigger an immune reaction.
Surprising examples:
- Oyster extract — found in some supplements, sauces, or flavor enhancers
- Casein (milk protein) — in “non-dairy” creamers, protein powders, some canned tuna
- Soy lecithin — in chocolate, baked goods, dressings, and spray oils
- Beef gelatin — in gummies, marshmallows, capsules, some yogurts
- Celery powder — used as a preservative in deli meats and hot dogs
- Wheat derivatives — in soy sauce, soups, or as thickeners in sauces
If you’re unsure about a specific item in your report, we can explain what it is and common places it may appear; your healthcare provider can advise whether to eliminate or monitor it.
Disclaimer: Pinnertest is not a diagnostic test for allergies, celiac disease, lactose intolerance, or any medical condition. It measures IgG antibody levels to specific foods, which may be associated with food intolerance in some individuals. Pinnertest is performed by Microwell Laboratories, a CLIA-certified laboratory. Microwell Laboratories does not provide any treatment, dietary counseling, or after-test support, and we are not permitted to do so. Clients should seek guidance from qualified healthcare specialists and may share their results with them for evaluation and personalized recommendations. Pinnertest and Microwell Laboratories are not responsible for any medical outcomes, dietary changes, or health consequences resulting from the use or interpretation of results. If you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention.
For more detail about how testing works, visit our Food Intolerance Test, Food Sensitivity Test, and Food Sensitivity vs Allergy vs Intolerance guides.
