Do not start this test until your ZOE app tells you to
Based on your start date, your app will specify the date and time when you need to complete this test. Please don’t start this test until your app tells you to.
What's included in the gut health test kit:
A pair of disposable gloves.
A flushable paper sampling sheet.
A liquid-containing stool collection tube, with a scoop for collection.
A plastic bag with an absorbent pad to transport the sample when you return it.
A gut health test returns box with a prepaid label.
Step 1: Unfold the paper sampling sheet
Peel the paper lining from the back side of the double sided tape.
Do not flush the paper lining.
Do not flush the plastic peeled from the double-sided tape.
Step 2: Attach the paper seat to your toilet
Place the sampling sheet onto the back side of the toilet seat or bowl. Place onto the toilet bowl if you’re using a toilet seat cover. Adjust the position after placement.
Step 3: Poop in the centre of the sampling sheet
Collect the sample from the middle of your poop. One scoop of poop will provide all the sample that is required.
Step 4: Unscrew the stool collection tube
Do not spill the liquid inside the tube.
This is a preservative that keeps your poop safe. If you do spill the liquid, we will not be able to analyse your sample and your results will be delayed.
Step 5: Collect a pea-sized amount of stool
Use the scoop to collect one pea-sized scoop of poop (or 4 scoops of liquid poop). Collect the sample from the middle of your poop.
Why the middle?
Collecting from the middle of your poop means your sample will be less contaminated by other bodily fluids and we will be able to give you more accurate results.
How much do you need?
One scoop of poop is all we need. Please do not add more than this otherwise we won’t be able to analyse your sample.
Step 6: Screw the lid on the tube closed tightly and mix your sample
Screw the lid on the tube tightly to close it securely. Then, mix well by shaking thoroughly (invert at least 10 times). It may be difficult to mix your sample completely — this is okay. Foaming or frothing during shaking is also normal.
Step 7: Dispose of the paper seat
When you are done collecting your poop sample, flush the sheet down the toilet. Peel the tape slowly to ensure that none is left on the bowl. Dispose your gloves in your normal household waste and wash your hands.
Step 8: Place the collection tube with your sample in the plastic bag and seal it
Step 9: Place the sealed plastic bag into the prepaid gut health return box
If you are in the UK: place the sealed plastic bag directly into the prepaid gut health return box.
If you are in the US: place the sealed plastic bag into the bubble wrap envelope and then into the prepaid gut health return box.
Do keep the sample at room temperature away from direct sunlight.
Do not freeze your sample.
Step 10: Log the date and time of collection in the ZOE app
Tap on the ‘Do your gut health test’ task and type in the date and time you collected your sample and mark this task as complete.
Step 11: Return your sample
If you are in the UK: Return your poop sample via Royal Mail using the prepaid gut health return box.
If you are in the US: Mail your poop sample via USPS using the prepaid gut health return box.
Just drop it in the nearest mailbox or post office box. The sooner we get your sample, the quicker we can give you gut health insights.
