from challenge to collaboration

OPTIMIZING DYSPHAGIA CARE AND OPERATIONS

  • A hospital-based study of over 3,000 older adults found that those with dysphagia were nearly three times more likely to be malnourished, more than twice as likely to develop lung infections like pneumonia, and over three times more likely to die within a year after a pneumonia diagnosis.10
  • For safety and consistency, IDDSI now sets the standards for texture-modified foods. However, this may require increased training and operational adjustment.
  • Menu fatigue is real: 43% of foodservice staff say creating appealing dysphagia meals is a top concern.11
  • Including everyone from dining to activities is important. Research shows that interdisciplinary teams improve nutrition and reduce hospitalizations in dysphagia patients.12
  • Challenges like malnutrition, operational strain, menu fatigue, and the need for an interdisciplinary approach are creating new pressures for operators. Campbell’s Foodservice aims to help meet these needs with versatile, nourishing soup solutions that support both staff and the guests they serve.​

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE GETTING STARTED

According to IDDSI, most soups are considered mixed-consistency foods since they combine liquid with solid pieces. The only level in the IDDSI Framework that includes mixed consistencies is Regular, Level 7. This means soups should be completely smooth (with no clumps or bits) and verified to meet the appropriate IDDSI level for each individual. Visit IDDSI.org to learn more about the IDDSI Framework and Testing Methods and find other helpful resources.

10. Karunaratne TB, Calve P, Ortega O. Complications of oropharyngeal dysphagia in older individuals and patients with neurological disorders: Insights from Mataró hospital, Catalonia, Spain. Front Neurol. 2024;15:1355199. doi:10.3389/fneur.2024.1355199

11. Roche Dietitians & Campbell’s Foodservice. Dysphagia menu management in long-term care: Clinical and Culinary Challenges. 2024.

12. Robbins J, Gensler G, Hind J, Logemann JA, Lindblad AS, Brandt D, ... & Miller Gardner PJ. Comparison of 2 interventions for liquid aspiration on pneumonia incidence: A randomized trial. Ann Intern Med. 2008;148(7):509-518. https://doi.org/10.7326/0003-4819-148-7-200804010-00007

These are not official IDDSI resources, educational materials, or education programs, and they are NOT meant to replace materials and resources on IDDSI.org.

Find more culinary inspiration and operational support at campbellsfoodservice.com