The Museum of Edible Earth is an ongoing, moveable project by the artist and researcher masharu. This iteration at Somerset House is more of a display than an exhibition, but certainly worth dropping into of an afternoon. If you visit between 1 and 4pm, you can taste samples from the central table.
Despite my various allergies, sensitivities and intolerences, I gave it a go.
Eating earth was a concept new to me, however, the textures are familiar.
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Luvos Healing Earth is apparently commonly found in German medicine cabinets - taken like homeopathy. I've certainly nibbled at gritty things like this - perhaps a vitamin tablet or something grainy you're not supposed to eat.
Diatomaceaous earth is very like Birds custard powder, if you've ever tried that - cool and fine on the tongue.
For me, I didn't get much in the way of taste, but I suppose it depends on how recently you've brushed your teeth or had a coffee.
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There is a wall of intruiguing jars filled with just some of masharu's collection, gleaned from years of travel and engagement with fellow earth eaters. It may be an unfamiliar concept in the West, but of course earth is consumed for therapeutic qualities in all different cultures, and there is a long history of the practice of geophagy and using what is our most immediate resource.
There is a little information on display, and more available online, but in all it's probably going to be short visit. It's the very idea of eating earth, and the imagination of that, which linger in the mind rather than this modest display.
Somerset House itself is a great place to visit, and to have a wander around the area.
Entrance is free, although Somerset House asks you to pay what you can and to book a ticket.
Museum of Edible Earth
Somerset House
Strand
London WC2R 1LA
to 26 April 2026
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