Sample Collection
How to collect your sample
A clean sample, collected and returned correctly, is what makes your results accurate. This guide walks through the essentials — plus the specifics for each test. Your kit always includes detailed printed instructions too.
The essentials
Four things that apply to every test
Step 1
Read the kit instructions first
Your kit contains a printed guide specific to your test, plus the same preparation guide we email you on purchase. Read it fully before you start — preparation often begins a few days before collection.
Step 2
Prepare correctly
Follow any fasting, supplement, or dietary instructions to the letter. Skipping a step is the most common reason a sample has to be re-collected.
Step 3
Collect on the right day
Samples must reach the lab while they are still stable. Collect early in the week (and in the morning where instructed) so your sample isn’t sitting in transit over a weekend.
Step 4
Return it the same day
Seal your sample using the supplied packaging and post it in the pre-paid express/courier satchel the same day you collect. Don’t store a completed sample overnight unless your guide says otherwise.
By test
Collection specifics for each panel
Three of our four tests are collected entirely at home. NutriSTAT is the exception — its blood portion is taken at a local pathology collection centre, while the urine portion is done at home.
NutriSTAT 5005
Blood draw + urine
Blood draw at a Melbourne Pathology collection centre on a Monday or Friday morning. First-morning urine collected at home the same day. Both samples returned together using the pre-paid express packaging in your kit.
Microbiomix Metagenomic Mapping
Stool sample
At-home stool collection using the kit provided. Collect on a Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday morning and post the same day using the pre-paid express packaging. The entire process takes under 10 minutes.
Oral Microbiome Mapping
Cheek swab
At-home cheek swab collection using the sterile swab provided. Takes under 5 minutes. No fasting required. Return using the pre-paid courier packaging included in your kit.
Mycotoxin Exposure Panel
Urine sample
At-home spot urine collection using the sterile container provided. First-morning urine is preferred for highest sensitivity. No fasting or dietary restrictions required. Return using the pre-paid courier packaging included in your kit.
If something doesn't go to plan
Spilled the sample, missed a collection day, or unsure whether you prepared correctly? Don't post it — get in touch first. It's almost always quicker and cheaper to sort out before a sample reaches the lab.
Email hello@functionaltest.com.au or visit the contact page. New to the process? Start with how it works.