Navigating IDDSI

What is IDDSI?

IDDSI is the abbreviation for International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative. This universal framework helps clarify the way texture-modified foods and thickened consistency drinks are prescribed for people with dysphagia.  

The 8-level system provides practical and valid measurement techniques for naming and accurately defining food texture and drink thickness levels.

How is IDDSI used?

A speech language therapist will use the framework to recommend a diet texture prescription, which includes the least restrictive food texture and drink consistency level for the patient. This helps the care team adhere to a consistent and clear plan for which modified texture dishes to serve at meal and snack times. IDDSI also provides simple texture and consistency testing methods to support a safe and effective implementation.

What types of food and drink are best for people with dysphagia?  

Nutritional solutions may include modified texture foods such as purées, minced and moist foods, soft and bite-sized items and easy-to-chew products—combined with drinks that deliver on one of four modified thickness levels.  

It is important to note that the IDDSI framework only describes food and drink. It cannot be used to select what level(s) of foods and drink are appropriate for a person. Please work with a healthcare provider trained in IDDSI and dysphagia to determine and prescribe appropriate IDDSI levels.

Why should I implement IDDSI at my facility?

Every person with dysphagia has unique chewing and swallowing needs. Understanding the IDDSI framework and testing methodology is key to building the most flexible and safe nutrition program.

Implementing IDDSI is a long-term investment that lays the groundwork for adding efficiency and safety to your operation. Implementation works best as a cross-departmental effort and with a shared belief in its valuable benefits.

How can Eatsential help with IDDSI implementation?

We're passionate about educating caregivers, clinicians and operators on the importance of IDDSI. That's why we've created "Implementing IDDSI," a comprehensive CEU course that will get you on your way to a successful implementation. In this course, our implementation experts will show you how to:

• Confidently manage education and application of the IDDSI framework's 8-level terminology across departments
• Update key operational components, such as electronic medical record (EMR) templates, diet orders, diet office software and nutrition care manuals—plus facility, food and nutrition policies
• Navigate all the moving parts of the healthcare facility process, including assessing facility needs, culinary skills, menu offerings, nutritional spreadsheets, production sheets, and quality assurance
• Activate performance improvement initiatives, enabling a sustainable IDDSI program that's realistic for everyday practice

And of course, our full line of products is here to support menu updates during your IDDSI implementation.