Modified Foods and Fluids Terminology

Speech Pathology Australia endorses the IDDSI framework as best practice for speech pathologists in Australia. The IDDSI framework provides standardised names and descriptions of food and drink used to reduce choking risk. The framework is also supported by the Dietitians Association of Australia and the Institute of Hospitality in Healthcare.

The International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative framework for labelling and testing modified texture food and fluids was adopted in Australia on 1 May 2019.

The IDDSI framework consists of a continuum of 8 levels (0-7), where drinks are measured from Levels 0 – 4, while foods are measured from Levels 3 – 7. The IDDSI framework can be accessed from IDDSI International.

Speech pathologist can access general resources for use in professional practice from the IDDSI website resources page. Australian specific resources are listed under the ‘Country Specific’ tab.

For further information about the adoption of the IDDSI framework in Australia email the Australian IDDSI Reference Group (AUIRG) or the Association's Manager, Ethics and Professional Issues.