IDDSI Level 6
Soft & Bite-Sized
Tender 1.5 cm pieces. Chewing required, no knife needed.
What it is
Soft, tender, moist food in bite-sized pieces (≤ 1.5 cm for adults). Chewing is required, but a knife is not — a fork or spoon can break it apart.
What it looks like
Casseroles, tender braised dishes, soft-cooked vegetables cut to 1.5 cm.
The official test
video: Level 6 testing method
Fork pressure test: a 1.5 cm piece squashes flat with fork pressure (thumbnail blanches) and does not return to shape.
Run the guided fork & spoon testsFoods that typically fit
- Slow-braised meat cut to 1.5 cm, tender throughout
- Soft-cooked vegetables
- Banana and very ripe soft fruits
- Soft pasta pieces in thick sauce
Products can vary by batch. Always verify with the IDDSI tests before serving.How to test →
Common mistakes
- “Soft-ish” meat that needs a knife — if it doesn’t squash under a fork, it fails.
- Mixed consistencies: cereal with milk, brothy soups with pieces.
- Bread — regular fresh bread is not Level 6 unless specially prepared.