IDDSI Framework Testing Methods 2.0 - 2019
IDDSI Framework Testing Methods 2.0 - 2019
IDDSI Framework Testing Methods 2.0 - 2019
Testing Methods
2.0 | 2019
This IDDSI Framework and Descriptors are licensed under the
CreativeCommons Attribution-Sharealike 4.0 International License
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/
IDDSI 2.0 |July 2019
INTRODUCTION
The International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) was founded in 2013 with the goal of
developing new international standardised terminology and definitions to describe texture modified foods and
thickened liquids used for individuals with dysphagia of all ages, in all care settings, and all cultures.
Three years of work by the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Committee culminated in the 2016
release and 2017 publication of the IDDSI Framework consisting of a continuum of 8 levels (0-7) Levels are
identified by numbers, text labels and colour codes. [Reference: Cichero JAY, Lam P, Steele CM, Hanson B, Chen J,
Dantas RO, Duivestein J, Kayashita J, Lecko C, Murray J, Pillay M, Riquelme L, Stanschus S. (2017) Development of
international terminology and definitions for texture-modified foods and thickened fluids used in dysphagia
management: The IDDSI Framework. Dysphagia, 32:293-314. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00455-
016-9758-y]
The IDDSI Framework Testing Methods 2019 is an update to the 2016 document and provides details regarding
Testing Methods for use with the IDDSI Framework.
This document is to be read in conjunction with the Complete IDDSI Framework 2019, IDDSI Evidence 2016 and
IDDSI Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) documents ( https://iddsi.org/framework/).
The IDDSI Framework provides a common terminology to describe food textures and drink thickness. IDDSI tests
are intended to confirm the flow or textural characteristics of a particular product at the time of testing. Testing
should be done on foods and drinks under the intended serving conditions (especially temperature). The clinician
has the responsibility to make recommendations for foods or drinks for a particular patient based on their
comprehensive clinical assessment.
IDDSI would like to acknowledge the interest and participation of the global community including patients,
caregivers, health professionals, industry, professional associations and researchers. We would also like to thank
our sponsors for their generous support.
Board Members: Jianshe Chen (CHN), Roberto Dantas (BRA), Janice Duivestein (CAN), Ben Hanson (UK),
Jun Kayashita (JPN), Mershen Pillay (ZAF), Luis Riquelme (USA), Catriona Steele (CAN),
Jan Vanderwegen (BE).
Past Board Members: Joseph Murray (USA), Caroline Lecko (UK), Soenke Stanschus (GER)
The International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative Inc. (IDDSI) is independent and operates as a not-for-
profit entity. IDDSI is grateful to a large number of agencies, organizations and industry partners for financial and
other support. Sponsors have not been involved with the design or development of the IDDSI framework.
Implementation of the IDDSI framework is in progress. IDDSI is extremely grateful to all sponsors supporting
implementation https://iddsi.org/about-us/sponsors/
The IDDSI systematic review suggested that liquids and food should be classified in the context of the
physiological processes involved in oral processing, oral transport and flow initiation (Steele et al., 2015).
To this end, different devices are needed to best describe the behaviour of the bolus.
Furthermore, viscosity is not the only relevant parameter: the flow of a drink as it is consumed is
influenced by many other variables including density, yield stress, temperature, propulsion pressure and
fat content (O’Leary et al., 2010; Sopade et al., 2007, Sopade et al., 2008a,b; Hadde et al.2015a,b). The
systematic review demonstrated wide variability in testing techniques used and found that other key
parameters such as shear rates, sample temperature, density and yield stress were rarely reported
(Steele et al., 2015; Cichero et al., 2013). Drinks thickened with different thickening agents may have the
same measurement of apparent viscosity at one particular shear rate, and yet have very different flow
characteristics in practice (Steele et al. 2015; O’Leary et al.,2010; Funami et al., 2012; Ashida et al.,
2007; Garcia et al., 2005). In addition to variations in flow associated with drink characteristics, flow
rates during swallowing are expected to differ depending on a person’s age and level of impairment of
swallowing function (O’Leary et al., 2010).
For these reasons, a measurement of viscosity has not been included in the IDDSI descriptors. Instead, a
gravity flow test using a 10 mL slip tip syringe is recommended to quantify the liquid’s flow category
(sample remaining from 10 mL after 10 sec of flow). The controlled conditions are broadly
representative of the way a liquid moves when swallowed, such as flow through a syringe or funnel.
The IDDSI Flow test is also similar in design and measurement principles to the Posthumus Funnel that is
used in the dairy industry to measure liquid thickness (van Vliet, 2002; Kutter et al., 2011). In fact the
Posthumus funnel looks like a large syringe (van Vliet, 2002; Kutter et al., 2011). Measures taken using
the Posthumus funnel include the time for a specified amount of sample to flow, and mass left after a
defined period of flow. Van Vliet (2002) notes that the geometry of the Posthumus funnel contains a
shear and elongation component that more closely matches flow conditions within the oral cavity
(Hanson et al., 2019).
Although the syringe chosen for use with the IDDSI Flow test is simple, the test has been found to
categorise a wide range of liquids reliably, and in agreement with currently existing laboratory tests and
expert judgement (Hanson et al., 2019). It has also been found to be sensitive enough to demonstrate
small changes in thickness associated with change in serving temperature.
Although 10 mL syringes were initially thought to be identical throughout the world based on reference
to an ISO standard (ISO 7886-1), it has subsequently been determined that the ISO document refers only
to the nozzle of the syringe and that variability in barrel length and dimensions may exist between
brands. Specifically, the IDDSI Flow test uses a reference syringe with a measured length of 61.5 mm
from the zero line to the 10 mL line (BDTM syringes were used for the development of the tests –
manufacturer code North America 303134, Australia 302143). IDDSI is aware that there are some
syringes that are labeled as 10 mL but have different dimensions or in fact have a 12 mL capacity. Using
a syringe of different dimensions to that described here or a 12 mL syringe will give results that cannot
reliably be used with the IDDSI Framework. As a result, it is important to check the barrel length as
shown on the diagram on page 5. Details for conducting the test are shown below. In the near future
funnels that have been specifically designed for IDDSI testing may be available.
Videos showing the IDDSI Flow Test can also be viewed at: https://iddsi.org/framework/drink-testing-
methods/
Testing tips:
• When using commercial thickener products, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and
mix thoroughly, watching closely that there are no lumps or air bubbles present. Be sure to
allow the recommended time for the fluid to thicken completely.
• Use a clean, dry syringe of the correct type each time you test.
• Check the nozzle of the syringe is completely clear and free from any plastic residue or
manufacturing defects that may occasionally occur.
• Test twice or more to ensure more reliable results.
• Check for lumps – especially if flow suddenly stops. In this case the fluid may not be suitable for
dysphagia use.
• Ensure to test the liquid at the intended serving temperature
NOTE:
Drinks and liquids such as gravy, sauces and nutritional supplements are best assessed using the IDDSI Flow Test
(Levels 0-3). Note that all products should be thoroughly stirred as non-homogenous liquids may give inconsistent
results. Foams found in carbonated drinks may appear thick on the flow test as they are less liable to flow under
their own weight, as their density is lower. Foams may also be unstable over time and release thinner liquids as
the carbonated bubbles burst.
For extremely thick drinks (Level 4), that do not flow through a 10 mL syringe in 10 seconds and are best
consumed with a spoon, the IDDSI Fork Drip Test and/or Spoon Tilt Test are recommended as methods for
determining consistency.
NOTE: Before use, check the nozzle is clear and free from any plastic residue or
manufacturing defects that very occasionally occur.
The systematic review demonstrated that the properties of hardness, cohesiveness and slipperiness were
important factors for consideration (Steele et al., 2015). In addition, size and shape of food samples have been
identified as relevant factors for choking risk (Kennedy et al., 2014; Chapin et al., 2013; Japanese Food Safety
Commission, 2010; Morley et al., 2004; Mu et al., 1991; Berzlanovich et al. 1999; Wolach et al., 1994; Centre for
Disease Control and Prevention, 2002, Rimmell et al., 1995; Seidel et al., 2002).
In view of this information, measurement of foods needs to capture both the mechanical properties (e.g.
hardness, cohesiveness, adhesiveness etc.) and the geometrical or shape attributes of the food. The IDDSI
descriptions of food texture and characteristics, food texture requirements and restrictions have been generated
from existing national terminologies and the literature describing properties that increase risk for choking.
IDDSI provides testing methods that use forks and spoons to minimize the need for subjectivity that often
accompanies description based methods. Forks and spoons were chosen as they are inexpensive, easily
accessible and available in most food preparation and dining environments. A combination of tests may be
required to determine which level a food fits into. Testing methods for purees, soft, firm and solid foods include:
The Fork Drip test, Spoon Tilt test, Fork or Spoon Pressure Test, Chopstick Test and Finger test. Videos showing
examples of these testing methods can be found at:
https://iddsi.org/framework/food-testing-methods/
Drips slowly or in
dollops/strands through the
tines/prongs of a fork
Sits in a mound or
pile above the fork
A small amount may flow through and form a short tail below the fork
Does not dollop, flow or drip continuously through the fork prongs
The Spoon Tilt Test is used predominantly for measures of samples in levels 4 and 5. The sample should:
• Be cohesive enough to hold its shape on the spoon
• A full spoonful must plop off the spoon if the spoon is titled or turned sideways; a very gentle flick (using only
fingers and wrist) may be necessary to dislodge the sample from the spoon, but the sample should slide off
easily with very little food left on the spoon. A thin film remaining on the spoon after the Spoon Tilt Test is
acceptable, however, you should still be able to see the spoon through the thin film; i.e. the sample should
not be firm and sticky
• A scooped mound may spread or slump very slightly on a plate
✕
þ þ þ ✕
T
Compliance with 4mm particle size can be demonstrated
with a fork as shown in the images opposite.
The pressure applied to make the thumb nail blanch has been measured
at ~ 17 kPa. This pressure is consistent with tongue force used during
swallowing (Steele et al., 2014). In the image at right, pressure is being
demonstrated in kilopascals using an Iowa Oral Performance Instrument.
This is one device that can be used to measure tongue pressure.
For assessment using the Fork Pressure Test, it is recommended that the fork
be pressed onto the food sample by placing the thumb onto the bowl of the
fork (just above the prongs) until blanching is observed, as shown in the
image at left. It is appreciated that forks are not used/readily available in
some parts of the world. Pressure applied using the base of a teaspoon may
provide a useful alternative.
To assess whether a sample fits the definition of a transitional food, the following method is applied:
Use a sample the size of the thumb nail (1.5 cm x 1.5 cm), and place 1 ml of water on the sample and
wait one minute. Apply fork pressure using the base of the fork until the thumbnail blanches to white.
The sample is a transitional food texture if after removing the fork pressure:
• The sample has been squashed and disintegrated and no longer looks like its original state when the
fork is lifted
• The sample can be easily broken apart using chopsticks with minimal pressure.
• The sample breaks apart completely by rubbing the sample between the thumb and index finger and
does not return to its initial shape.
• Or it has melted significantly and no longer looks like its original state (e.g. ice chips).
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