# IDDSI Level 6: Soft & Bite-Sized

Canonical: [https://followyourswallow.com/iddsi/level-6](https://followyourswallow.com/iddsi/level-6)

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.

## Official test

Fork pressure test: a 1.5 cm piece squashes flat with fork pressure (thumbnail blanches) and does not return to shape.

## Foods that typically fit

- Slow-braised meat cut to 1.5 cm, tender throughout
- Soft-cooked vegetables
- Ripe banana, peeled, stringy fibers removed, cut to no more than 1.5 cm, and pressure-tested
- Soft pasta pieces in thick sauce

## 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.


## Does IDDSI Level 6 have a food size limit?

Yes. Adult Level 6 food pieces must be no larger than 1.5 cm by 1.5 cm. The food must also be soft, tender, and moist, then squash completely under fork pressure without springing back. Children use a smaller 8 mm limit.

## What is the difference between IDDSI Level 6 and Level 7 Easy to Chew?

Level 6 has a strict piece-size limit and the food must be manageable without biting off a piece. Level 7 Easy to Chew has no fixed size limit because the person is expected to bite off a safe amount and chew soft, tender food independently.


Source: [IDDSI Level 6 Soft & Bite-Sized adult handout](https://www.iddsi.org/images/Publications-Resources/PatientHandouts/English/Adults/6_soft_bite_sized_adult_consumer_handout_30jan2019.pdf)


Source checked: 2026-08-12

## 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.