If your TikTok feed has recently filled with loud crunching noises and tiny terracotta pots disappearing into people’s mouths, you’re not alone. The platform’s latest viral food trend involves users filling miniature clay pots with lime or lemon juice, sprinkling them with Tajín seasoning, and eating them whole on camera.
The trend is believed to have started with TikTok creator Janeth Herrera, who shared videos of herself eating small clay vessels while experiencing pregnancy cravings. Her clips quickly racked up millions of views, sparking a mix of fascination, confusion and outright disgust across the app.
Since then, other users have jumped on board, often framing the videos as ASMR content, leaning into the crunchy sound and earthy texture. Some viewers admit the clips make them curious, while others say the idea is hard to stomach. Demand has reportedly surged online, with miniature clay pots selling out on platforms like Amazon as people attempt to recreate the trend at home.
@jannherr Late night snack 🤪 #jarrodebarro #dirt #water ♬ original sound – Janeth Herrera🦋
Health experts, however, are urging caution. Dietitians say craving and consuming non‑food items like clay can be linked to a condition known as pica, which is sometimes associated with nutrient deficiencies, particularly during pregnancy. Even when basic blood tests appear normal, specialists warn underlying deficiencies can still exist.
There are also physical risks. Clay is not easily digested and can accumulate in the digestive system, potentially causing blockages. Biting into ceramic materials may also damage teeth, while unregulated clay products can contain contaminants such as heavy metals.
While some point out that eating clay, known as geophagia, has historical and cultural roots in parts of the world, medical professionals stress that TikTok’s viral version strips away important context. Experts say modern evidence does not support any health benefits, and the risks outweigh any perceived gains.
As with many TikTok food crazes, the mini clay pot trend appears to thrive on shock value and algorithm‑driven curiosity. Health professionals continue to remind viewers that not everything trending online is safe to try, no matter how many likes it racks up.
