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Our homes recently completed an in-depth training session on the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative, an internationally recognised framework designed to support residents with swallowing difficulties. This training ensures our team can provide the safest, most thoughtful mealtime support possible, tailored to individual needs.
What is IDDSI?
The International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) is a globally recognised framework that standardises food textures and drink thickness for individuals with swallowing difficulties, also known as dysphagia. Swallowing difficulties can pose serious risks, including choking, aspiration and malnutrition.
IDDSI provides clear guidance on food and drink consistency, enabling care staff to deliver meals safely while still ensuring they are enjoyable, nutritious and satisfying.
Need-to-Know: Quick IDDSI Guide
Here’s a simple overview of the 8 IDDSI levels:
• Level 0 – Thin liquids: Water, juice, tea, coffee
• Level 1 – Slightly thick liquids: Nectar-like consistency
• Level 2 – Mildly thick liquids: Drinks that flow slowly through a straw
• Level 3 – Liquidised foods: Smooth, pureed, or blended foods without lumps
• Level 4 – Pureed / Extremely thick liquids: Smooth, spoonable, suitable for thickened drinks
• Level 5 – Minced & moist foods: Soft, small pieces easy to chew
• Level 6 – Soft & bite-sized foods: Foods requiring some chewing but tender
• Level 7 – Regular foods: Normal texture for residents without swallowing difficulties
Why it matters: Following IDDSI reduces the risk of choking and aspiration, promotes proper nutrition and allows residents to enjoy mealtimes with dignity.
How IDDSI Helps Residents
Adapting meals and drinks to the correct IDDSI levels significantly improves safety and comfort. Residents can maintain independence and dignity while eating, and staff can confidently provide nutrition tailored to each individual’s needs.
This personalised approach promotes overall health and wellbeing, making mealtimes a positive experience rather than a source of stress or risk.
Training Our Team
During the sessions, our staff gained practical, hands-on experience:
• Identifying appropriate IDDSI levels for different residents
• Safely modifying meals and drinks to match those levels
• Testing food and drink consistency using recognised methods, including flow tests, spoon tilt tests, and fork pressure checks
• Enhancing the mealtime experience through careful presentation and support
The team’s enthusiasm was outstanding. Their dedication to learning and applying these standards reflects our commitment to providing the highest quality care every day.
Meadowiew Care Home
Brockworth House Nursing Home
Moorhouse Care Home
Engelberg Care Home
Our Commitment to Safe, Enjoyable Mealtimes
At Ashberry Healthcare, we understand that mealtimes are about more than nutrition - they are a time for enjoyment, social connection and maintaining dignity.
With IDDSI training, our staff are fully equipped to ensure every resident enjoys safe, comfortable and fulfilling meals. This investment in continuous learning reinforces our promise to uphold the highest standards of care and support for everyone in our homes.
Looking for a care home that puts mealtimes and wellbeing first?
If you’re looking for a care home where your loved one can enjoy safe, supportive and enjoyable mealtimes, as well as feel valued and stimulated every day, Ashberry Healthcare is here to help.
Contact us today to learn more about our approach to high-quality residential, nursing, dementia, and respite care - or to arrange a friendly visit to your nearest home and see our mealtime care in action.
Get in touch with us today.
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