If you’ve ever enjoyed crunchy natural earth snacks or edible chalk, you might have noticed that distinct, high-pitched squeak when chewing. It’s a unique sound that many crunchy enthusiasts find oddly satisfying — but what causes it?

At Earthy Crunch UK, we love digging into the science behind these sensory experiences. The secret behind chalk’s signature squeak lies in a mineral called calcium carbonate. Let’s explore why this mineral makes chalk squeak and how it shapes your crunchy experience.

What Is Calcium Carbonate?

Calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) is a naturally occurring compound found in many rocks, including limestone, marble, and chalk. It forms the basic structure of edible chalk and plays a crucial role in its texture and sound.

• It’s a hard, brittle mineral that contributes to chalk’s crispness.

• Calcium carbonate’s crystal structure influences how the chalk breaks and interacts with your teeth.

Why Does Chalk Squeak?

When you chew chalk, the calcium carbonate crystals rub and slide against your teeth and each other. This creates tiny vibrations that produce the characteristic squeaking sound.

Here’s why:

• The mineral crystals have a hard surface that doesn’t absorb sound but instead reflects it sharply.

• The friction between the chalk particles and enamel creates those high-frequency squeaks.

• The drier and purer the chalk, the louder and clearer the squeak tends to be.

The Role of Purity and Moisture

• Pure calcium carbonate chalk: Produces a louder, more distinct squeak.

• Moisture: Damp chalk tends to muffle the sound, making the squeak less pronounced or absent.

That’s why keeping your chalk dry is key to that satisfying crunchy and squeaky experience.

Why Squeak Matters to Crunch Lovers

The squeak isn’t just noise—it’s part of the sensory ritual. For many, the sound signals freshness and quality, enhancing the enjoyment and satisfaction of eating edible chalk.

At Earthy Crunch UK, we celebrate these little details that make crunching more than just eating—it’s a full sensory experience.

Final Crunch

Next time you hear that signature chalk squeak, you’ll know it’s the calcium carbonate crystals at work. It’s a natural, mineral-powered soundtrack that adds an extra layer of pleasure to your crunchy treat.

Crunch loud, crunch proud—with Earthy Crunch UK.

Shop Chalks