Common questions

What IDDSI level is mashed potato?

Mashed potato does not have one automatic IDDSI level. Smooth, lump-free mashed potato that is not sticky, has no liquid separating out, and passes both the fork drip test and the spoon tilt test can meet Level 4 Pureed. IDDSI lists sticky mashed potato as a choking-risk texture to avoid at Levels 4 through 7, and it warns about the crust that can form on mashed potato during cooking or reheating.

Stickiness is the main problem. IDDSI explains that sticky food can cling to the cheeks, teeth, roof of the mouth, or throat. Mashed potato that is overworked or left to cool and stiffen can turn gluey even when it looks smooth.

For Level 4, IDDSI describes food that is smooth with no lumps, holds its shape on a spoon, falls off in a single spoonful when tilted or lightly flicked, and is not firm or sticky. It must pass both tests, not just one.

Crust or skin that forms on food during cooking or after heating is on IDDSI's avoid list for Levels 4, 5, and 6, and mashed potato is one of its named examples. Remove any skin or browned top before serving.

Test the potato at the temperature it will be eaten, and test again after reheating. Your speech-language pathologist decides which level is right. This page explains how to prepare and check mashed potato within that plan.