The Earthy Crunch UK Blog
Are Those Photos Too Pretty To Be Real?
Are Those Photos Too Pretty To Be Real?
Let’s talk about the photos — because yes, they’re pretty. Maybe too pretty. Some of you have wondered whether Earthy Crunch UK is really that polished, or whether the clays... 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...
Is It Safe to Eat Clay? (And How to Do It Responsibly)
If you’ve ever found yourself craving clay, chalk, or some other crunchy earth-based snack, you might wonder: Is it actually safe to eat clay? The short answer is: it depends. And like all things crunchy and satisfying, it’s best done thoughtfully and responsibly. I’m not here to make health claims or tell you clay is some magical superfood. Honestly, for me, it’s about satisfying cravings, enjoying the texture and taste, and not really about eating large quantities or treating it like a meal. Most days, I don’t even swallow much... Read more...
The Difference Between Cravings and Deficiency: Understanding Your Urges
If you find yourself reaching for clay, chalk, or dirt and wonder why, you’re definitely not alone — and it’s not just about the texture or taste. There’s often more going on beneath the surface. Pica, the craving and consumption of non-food items like clay or chalk, sits at a fascinating crossroads between sensory pleasure and the body’s deeper needs. But before you worry, let me say this clearly: Eating clay or chalk doesn’t cause mineral deficiencies or medical issues. If anything, these cravings often arise because certain deficiencies are... Read more...
Mood, Texture, Crave: What Your Crunch Says About You
Mood, Texture, Crave: What Your Crunch Says About You
A tongue-in-cheek personality quiz for all my crunch-loving weirdos 🧡 Let’s be honest — the type of crunch you crave says a lot about you. You think you're just picking... Read more...