EP 50: Beyond the blender – dysphagia made easier with Simone Howells

Preparing safe, enjoyable meals for people with dysphagia can be challenging but it does not have to mean sacrificing enjoyment of food, variety, and social connection. How can clinicians and caregivers help ensure meals remain safe and enjoyable?

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Simone Howells from Griffith University, Australia, about the second edition of Beyond the Blender: Dysphagia Made Easier; a freely available cookbook featuring 30 recipes organised according to IDDSI Levels 2–6.

We discuss:

• the inspiration behind creating the cookbook
• how recipes were developed, selected and adapted across IDDSI levels
• the challenges of modifying everyday meals while maintaining taste, texture, and visual appeal
• the broader responsibilities of SLTs beyond recommending modified diets
• practical strategies and resources to better support patients and families