The latest trend taking over TikTok might leave you scratching your head — or picking dirt out of your teeth. Viral videos show users filling miniature clay pots with lime juice, dusting them in Tajin (a popular Mexican seasoning), and eating them whole like a crunchy snack. The trend was sparked by content creator Janeth Herrera, who began craving dirt during her recent pregnancy. Her videos, which have racked up millions of views, have divided the Internet, with a number of viewers seriously intrigued and sharing new cravings of their own. Some have even been inspired to test it themselves, but not everyone is sold on the idea. “Craving non-food substances like clay is known as pica, which is sometimes associated with iron deficiency or other nutrient gaps, especially during pregnancy,” explained Amy Shapiro, a registered dietician and nutritionist. “There is ‘food grade’ clay that has been processed, purified and tested to be safe for human consumption, unlike other forms of clay. However, even if labeled as food grade, it doesn’t mean it’s FDA regulated,” cautioned Dr. Lauren Shawn, a medical toxicologist and emergency medicine physician at Northwell’s Phelps Hospital. Many of these products are classified as vitamins or supplements, she explained, so federal regulators don’t have to vet their safety or effectiveness before they reach consumers. “Bottom line: You are relying on individual manufacturers to confirm the clay is free of harmful contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, spores, et cetera,” Shawn said. In addition to potential toxicity from contamination, eating clay can lead to nutrient deficiencies from impaired absorption and even make medications less effective. There’s also the risk of chipped teeth from munching on ceramics. Fortunately, for many pregnant women with pica, cravings for non-food substances often subside after giving birth and once nutrient levels return to normal.
