Test Kits

Yes, they are single-use tests.

Yes they can. If they’re brave enough, it’s great to test them.

Download our ‘how to guide' and read the instructions carefully.

It’s essential to follow the instructions. If the test fails, it’s always because the instructions weren’t followed and we can’t replace the kit, so it would be a big waste of your money, time and effort. If you follow these to the letter, your test will be easy and quick.

If you don't activate your test kit, the lab won’t be able to assign your sample or test results to you. You need to activate your customer portal and save your details to the system.

Make sure to activate your testing kit before sending off your sample.

1. Scan the QR code on the kit instructions.

2. Enter your activation code. Found on the collection sample card.

3. Fill out your details.

4. You'll receive an email confirming your kit has been activated.

To collect your sample correctly:

1. Read the pre-preparation tips in our how to take a blood test guide. You'll need to prepare the blood flow for an easy test.

2. Drop a single drop of blood in each circle on the sample card.

Do not press the finger on the sample card. Here is an example of a right and wrong sample card.

3. Use the spare lancet if necessary to repeat the steps on your middle or index finger.

4. Use the plaster to stop the bleeding.

Note: Plasters are latex-free but be careful of other allergies.

5. Leave the sample card to dry for at least 10 minutes before folding.

5. Seal the sample card and desiccant inside the zip lock bag.

The omega-3 test is analysed by GC-MS and the vitamin D by LC-MS/MS, the gold standard in analytical chemicals.

The laboratory follows an approved methodology and the same one used by the NHS, which has been optimised and validated so that you can be sure of the highest accuracy possible. Here is some more detail:

GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry):

GC-MS is a powerful analytical technique that combines two different methods – gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. It's commonly used to identify and quantify compounds in complex mixtures, such as blood samples. Here's how it works:

1. Gas Chromatography (GC):In this step, a sample is vaporised and injected into a gas chromatograph. The components in the sample separate as they move through a chromatographic column. Different compounds in the sample interact with the column materials at varying rates, leading to separation.
2. Mass Spectrometry (MS): Once the separated compounds leave the chromatographic column, they enter the mass spectrometer. This device measures the mass-to-charge ratio of ions produced from the compounds. This information is used to identify and quantify the compounds present in the sample.

Relevance to Vitamin D Analysis:GC-MS can be used to analyse certain forms of Vitamin D, such as Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). These forms can be converted into volatile derivatives suitable for analysis by gas chromatography. 

LC-MS/MS (Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry):

LC-MS/MS is another advanced analytical method that combines liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. It's often used to measure specific compounds with high accuracy and sensitivity.

Here's how it works:

1. Liquid Chromatography (LC): Similar to gas chromatography, liquid chromatography separates components in a sample based on their interactions with a stationary phase. In LC-MS/MS, the mobile phase is a liquid, allowing for the separation of a wide range of compounds.
2. Tandem Mass Spectrometry (MS/MS): In tandem mass spectrometry, two mass spectrometers are used in series. The first mass spectrometer selects a specific ion from the separated compounds and breaks it into smaller fragments. The second mass spectrometer measures the mass-to-charge ratio of these fragments, providing precise information about the compound's structure and identity.

Relevance to Vitamin D Analysis: LC-MS/MS is often used to quantify the levels of specific metabolites of Vitamin D, such as 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D). This form of Vitamin D is considered a reliable indicator of overall Vitamin D status in the body. Accurate measurement of 25(OH)D is important for assessing deficiency or sufficiency and guiding appropriate supplementation.

GC-MS and LC-MS/MS are sophisticated techniques used to analyse compounds with high precision and sensitivity. When applied to Vitamin D analysis, they provide accurate information about an individual's Vitamin D status, helping healthcare professionals make informed decisions regarding supplementation and overall health management.

You’ll receive your results within 21 days after receipt of the sample.

You should get an email confirmation once your results have been received. If you have any questions about your results, please contact us at info@barebiology.com.

Download our example test results here:

Omega-3 test kit results

Vitamin D test kit results

Have you activated your test kit using the test pack's QR code?

If you didn’t do this, the lab won’t be able to identify who the results belong to, so you might need to start again. Please email us at info@barebiology.com if you need any help.