# IDDSI Level 5: Minced & Moist

Canonical: [https://followyourswallow.com/iddsi/level-5](https://followyourswallow.com/iddsi/level-5)

Soft, moist pieces no bigger than 4 mm.

## What it is

Soft, moist food in very small lumps (≤ 4 mm for adults) that are easy to squash with the tongue. Minimal chewing required.

## What it looks like

Finely minced or mashed food held together with a thick, smooth sauce. No thin liquid separating.

## Official test

Fork pressure test: pieces squash easily with light fork pressure (thumbnail blanches white). Fork prongs: pieces fit between the slots of a standard fork (4 mm).

## Foods that typically fit

- Finely minced tender meat in thick gravy
- Mashed flaky fish, bones removed
- Mashed soft fruit (drained)
- Thick porridge with small soft lumps

## Common mistakes

- Mince that is dry or rubbery, “minced” without “moist” is not Level 5.
- Pieces larger than 4 mm, measure against the fork prongs.
- Thin gravy pooling on the plate, sauce must be thick and cohesive.




## Safety

Use only the food and drink levels prescribed by the person's qualified clinician. Test the actual serving before it is eaten or drunk.