The Earthy Crunch UK Blog
From Mud Huts to Munchies: The Surprising History of Clay in Human Life – Blending architecture, medicine, and cravings
From Mud Huts to Munchies: The Surprising History of Clay in Human Life – Blending architecture, medicine, and cravings
From Mud Huts to Munchies: The Surprising History of Clay in Human Life Clay. Humble, squishy, often underfoot—and yet it’s been shaping human life for thousands of years. It’s in... Read more...
Why Chalk Squeaks: The Role of Calcium Carbonate
Why Chalk Squeaks: The Role of Calcium Carbonate
Ever wondered why chalk makes that distinctive squeaking sound? It’s all thanks to calcium carbonate crystals rubbing against your teeth. Discover the science behind the crunch and squeak with Earthy... Read more...
When it rains, it clumps: How weather and climate affect edible clays
When it rains, it clumps: How weather and climate affect edible clays
The world of edible clays may feel timeless and earthy, but it's far from immune to the whims of weather. From scorching heat to relentless monsoon rains, the climate plays... Read more...
How moisture affects texture
How moisture affects texture
Moisture plays a key role in the texture of edible clay. Learn how keeping your clay dry preserves that satisfying crunch and why moisture levels can make or break your... Read more...
Why your clay or chalk might smell like incense (or soap or plastic) — and what to do about it
So you’ve unwrapped your newest batch of crunchy chalk, raw clay chunks or smoky roasted treats… only to notice something a bit unexpected. A whiff of sandalwood, maybe? A floral smokiness? Or worse — a faint plasticky or soapy smell? Before you panic and think your order’s gone off, let’s pause. There’s a perfectly good explanation — and a few easy fixes. Let’s get into the hows, the whys, and the very human traditions that might be tagging along with your tasty stash. The sacred smell of incense — and... Read more...
Coming out crunchy: tips for telling people about pica
Because “I eat clay” isn’t exactly a conversation starter… or is it? Let’s face it — telling someone you like to crunch on clay, chalk, or dirt isn’t as simple as confessing you binge reality TV or still sleep with a stuffed animal. Pica is one of those cravings that comes with side-eyes, raised brows, and a healthy dose of wait, you do what now? But for many of us, pica isn’t just a weird quirk — it’s a deep-rooted craving, a sensory pleasure, and honestly, a part of who... Read more...
What minerals make clay crunch?: And how they affect flavour, colour, and your cravings
What minerals make clay crunch?: And how they affect flavour, colour, and your cravings
Curious what makes edible clay so satisfyingly crunchy? It’s all about the minerals like quartz, kaolinite, and illite that shape the texture and bite. Discover the science behind the crunch... Read more...
Why Texture Matters More Than Taste
Why Texture Matters More Than Taste
For lovers of edible clay and earth snacks, texture often matters more than taste. Discover why the satisfying crunch, mouthfeel, and sound create a richer, more enjoyable experience than flavor... Read more...
Why is edible clay so expensive?: A thoughtful look at price, perception & the crunchy truth
Ever wonder why a bag of edible clay costs more than your lunch? You're not alone — but there's more to that price tag than meets the eye. From international shipping and exchange rates to the handmade nature of each treat, edible clay is a niche luxury, not a bargain snack. And let’s be honest — we're willingly eating the ground, so maybe it’s time to stop expecting it to come cheap. Especially when it’s coming from places like India, where sellers are putting in serious work to ensure clean,... Read more...
Fired Earth & Living Culture: A Brief History of Indian Terracotta Treasures (and How We Crunch Them Today)
Fired Earth & Living Culture: A Brief History of Indian Terracotta Treasures (and How We Crunch Them Today)
From roadside chai kulhars to piggy bank gullaks, India’s terracotta traditions run deep — and for the geophagy community, they offer more than just nostalgia. These hand-shaped, sun-fired vessels carry... Read more...
A Taste of the Hills: The History of Chilterns Chalk and Earth-Eating Traditions in England
A Taste of the Hills: The History of Chilterns Chalk and Earth-Eating Traditions in England
The Chiltern Hills may be best known for their postcard views and ancient walking paths, but beneath those grassy slopes lies a crumbly white secret: chalk. Formed over 90 million... Read more...
Pica or Geophagia: What Is the Difference?
Pica or Geophagia: What Is the Difference?
Pica and geophagia both involve eating non-food substances, but they have very different meanings. Learn how pica is a clinical condition, while geophagia is a cultural practice with deep roots... Read more...