Common questions

What IDDSI level is a banana?

A banana does not have one automatic IDDSI level. Ripeness, softness, preparation, and piece size all matter. For an adult on Level 6, a ripe banana may fit only after it is peeled, cut into pieces no larger than 1.5 cm, and passes the fork pressure test. A whole or uncut banana does not meet the Level 6 size requirement. Level 7 Easy to Chew has no fixed piece-size limit, but the banana still needs to be soft and tender and the person must be able to bite and chew it safely.

IDDSI classifies the food as it is actually served, not by its name. One banana can behave differently from another: a ripe banana may squash easily, while a less-ripe banana can be firm, fibrous, or stringy. Test the serving that will go on the plate.

For adult Level 6 Soft & Bite-Sized, peel the banana, remove stringy fibers, and cut it into pieces no larger than 1.5 cm by 1.5 cm. Press a piece with a fork until the thumbnail blanches white. It should squash completely and should not spring back. Children use a smaller piece-size limit, so follow the child-specific plan and IDDSI guidance.

Level 7 Easy to Chew does not impose a fixed piece size. It assumes the person can bite off a safe amount, chew soft and tender food without tiring, and remove any unsafe pieces from the mouth. IDDSI says this level is not intended for someone with an identified increased risk of choking unless a qualified clinician has provided specific written guidance.

The prescribed level still comes from the speech-language pathologist. This page helps you prepare and test a banana within that plan; it does not decide which level is safe for a particular person.