How to Take Your inFoods IBS Test

Follow these simple instructions to collect your blood sample at home. The entire process takes less than 10 minutes.

Download PDF Instructions

Watch the Instructions Video

Critical: Proper Sample Collection

Your sample will be automatically rejected if the tips are not filled correctly. Please ensure all sampling tips are filled completely with NO WHITE visible.

Proper Sample Collection Guide

Step-by-Step Instructions

Save the box! You'll need it to return your sample. The test requisition is shipped with the box—keep it inside as it's required to process your sample.

Step 1

Fill Out the Sample Label

Write your Last Name, First Name, Date of Birth, and Collection Date on the sample label.

Important: The information on the sample label MUST exactly match the test requisition. Use your full legal name (no nicknames or abbreviations).
Step 2

Label the Cartridge

Remove the sample label from the plastic coating and place it firmly on the purple cartridge (NOT on the barcode or silver specimen bag).

Step 3

Wash and Warm Your Hands

Wash your hands with warm, soapy water. Rub them together to warm them up.

Important: Warming your hands is crucial for good blood flow. This step makes collection much easier!
Step 4

Select and Disinfect Your Finger

Choose which finger you'll use. Recommended: off-center of the finger midline. Use the alcohol pad to disinfect your fingertip. Let it air dry.

Step 5

Remove the Lancet Cap

Twist off and discard the lancet cap. DO NOT PULL.

⚠️ The lancet cap is a sterile barrier. Do not use the lancet if the cap is missing. This is a single-use device for safety.
Step 6

Prick Your Finger

Lay your hand flat on a hard surface. Position the lancet on your chosen finger. Apply firm and even pressure downward until you hear a "CLICK." The lancet will permanently retract into the device body.

Step 7

Wipe Away First Blood Drop

Use the gauze to wipe away the first blood drop. A new drop may take up to 20 seconds to form. If needed, gently massage your pricked finger upward until a drop forms.

Step 8

Collect Your Sample

Touch one of the 4 sampling tips to the blood drop (NOT your finger). Watch the tip turn fully red. Count 2 seconds. Slowly remove the tip from the blood. Repeat with all 4 sampling tips.

Critical: Always point sampling tips DOWN when touching the blood drop. Allow blood to be absorbed into the tip. Do NOT touch your finger or drip blood onto the tip. If blood flow stops, massage your finger or use the second lancet.
Step 9

Set Cartridge Down

Place the cartridge on a hard surface and apply the bandage to your finger.

⚠️ If you experience excess bleeding after collection, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Step 10

Close the Cartridge

Lift the sides of the cartridge to meet at the top. Press together until you hear a "CLICK."

Step 11

Seal in Silver Specimen Bag

Insert the cartridge into the silver specimen bag and seal the zip-top shut. Ensure the orange DRICARD desiccant is still in the bag.

Required: The cartridge MUST be resealed in the silver specimen bag with the desiccant card.
Step 12

Dispose of Lancet Safely

Enclose the lancet in the plastic pouch that contained it, seal it, and throw it in the trash. Do NOT dispose of the lancet in a recycling bin.

Returning Your Sample

MAIL WITHIN 3 DAYS

To ensure proper results, mail your sample within 3 days of blood collection

Return Checklist

Did you label the cartridge with your full name, date of birth, and collection date?
Does the information on the sample label exactly match the test requisition?
Did you fill all 4 sampling tips correctly (no white tips visible)?
Did you insert the cartridge into the silver specimen bag with the desiccant card and seal it?
Did you place the sealed bag and test requisition back into the box?
Did you seal the box using the adhesive tape on the front flap?
Did you place the USPS pre-paid return label on the bottom of the box?

Return Steps

A. Place sealed silver specimen bag and test requisition back into the box

B. Close and re-seal the box using the adhesive tape already on the front flap

C. Place the return shipping label in the outlined space on the bottom of the box

D. Drop off at any USPS mailbox or post office