In an effort to develop a standardized way of naming and describing texture modified foods and thickened liquids for people with dysphagia across the lifespan, the International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative has come up with the following framework.

Why IDDSI?

In recent years, a number of countries have worked to develop dysphagia diet standards at regional or national levels. Unfortunately all these standards use different terminology, labels, numbers and levels which adds to the confusion for individuals and caregivers as well as health professionals and researchers. An individual with dysphagia that is on a modified texture diet may find that his/her diet may be called one thing in hospital, which may be different in the rehabilitation facility or may be different from the label used in another province or even country. The development of international standards will address this particular issue.  Click here to learn about the Framework.