As time goes by, for many people the ability to swallow becomes more challenging. A puréed diet food may be recommended by your healthcare provider.
In the IDDSI framework – level 7 is classed as regular Easy to Chew. When this become a problem to swallow it may be necessary to move to food that meets the requirement of other IDDSI levels such as the IDSSI level 4 puréed diet.
The IDSSI level 4 puréed diet sets out the texture for food that has been modified. This is to make it easier to eat and swallow for people with swallowing issues.
What is important is to try not to mix everything together into the dreaded brown slop. By puréeing but keeping each element of the meal separate, it is possible to have an appetising meal.
Overview of IDDSI Level 4
For adults, all food must have a puréed texture. It will not require chewing. The food should be smooth with no lumps or bits.
To achieve this texture, food can be processed in a blender, adding liquid as required to get the correct consistency. After blending, if necessary, to remove all lumps and bits a sieve can be used to achieve a fine texture.
It is usual to eat puréed food with a spoon but it can be eaten with a fork as no liquid should drip though the prongs. It will hold its shape on a spoon and fall off a spoon in a single spoonful when tilted.
Full details of the Level 4 Puréed for Adults together with links to the fork test can also be found by following the link to the following official IDDSI page. ‘IDDSI level 4’.
It is important not to add too much thickener to puréed food. You should not be able to pick up puréed food in your fingers.
The NHS produce an excellent leaflet with great menu ideas and practical information. Please click on the link below for ‘NHS level 4 Menu Ideas’.
Please note, this site is NOT the official IDDSI website. Please visit the official website of IDDSI at www.IDDSI.org for the most current information and resources.