IDDSI Level 5
Minced & Moist
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.
The 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).
Run the guided fork & spoon testsFoods 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
Products can vary by batch. Always verify with the IDDSI tests before serving.How to test →
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.
Level 5 answers and recipes
Spaghetti & Meatballs30 min · serves 1 + the family · ends with the Level 5 check.Shepherd's Pie45 min · serves 1 + the family · ends with the Level 5 check.Turkey Meatloaf with Mash45 min · serves 1 + the family · ends with the Level 5 check.Creamy Macaroni & Cheese25 min · serves 2 · ends with the Level 5 check.