IDDSI

IDDSI, the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative, is an international collaborative effort to standardize the texture-modified foods and thickened liquids used to manage dysphagia. Its primary goal is to reduce confusion among clinicians, caregivers, and suppliers and to improve safety and consistency of feeding for people with swallowing disorders worldwide.

At the core of IDDSI is a framework that assigns beverages and foods to clearly defined levels, with streamlined descriptors, color coding, and simple testing methods. The framework covers fluids and solids separately, enabling clinicians to match texture and liquid thickness to a patient’s needs. Practical tools include the IDDSI Flow Test for liquids and other texture assessment methods to classify foods. The framework is supported by implementation guides, labeling schemes, and patient- and caregiver-friendly resources to aid communication and care planning.

IDDSI emerged from international collaboration among speech-language pathologists, dietitians, researchers, clinicians, and patient representatives during the 2010s and has since been adopted by hospitals, long-term care facilities, schools, and food service operations in many countries. Materials and translations are publicly available, and ongoing updates reflect user feedback and research findings.