Among Indonesia’s rich and diverse culinary traditions, there is one that stands out for its uniquenessAmpo, a traditional snack made entirely from natural clay. This fascinating delicacy comes from Tuban Regency in East Java and has been passed down through generations.
What Is Ampo Clay Snack From Tuban?
Ampo is a traditional snack made purely from clay without any additives. In the Javanese language, clay is known as lempung. The practice of eating soil or clay is called geophagy, a habit that is not exclusive to Indonesia. It can also be found in various tropical regions around the world.
In Tuban, Ampo is typically consumed as a light snack. It’s especially popular among pregnant women who experience cravings, or ngidam, during pregnancy. Despite its oddity to outsiders, this practice has endured and become a cultural tradition.
Myths and Beliefs Behind Ampo
Ampo is not just a snack; it also holds cultural and mystical significance. People in Java particularly in Central and East Java believe that eating Ampo helps strengthen the digestive system. Some even believe it can cure certain ailments.
But is it truly beneficial to health? Let’s explore what science and medicine say about this unusual tradition.
Potential Benefits of Eating Amplo Clay
Some studies suggest that sterile clay can provide certain health benefits. It may help soothe the stomach and protect the digestive system by binding harmful bacteria, pathogens, and viruses. In this way, consuming clay acts like an internal mud mask for the gut, offering temporary relief from digestive discomfort.
The Risks of Eating Ampo Clay Snack
Despite potential benefits, eating clay also carries several health risks. Contaminated soil may contain parasitic eggs, such as roundworms, which can cause long-term infections. Other dangers include:
- Worm infections in children
- Tooth enamel erosion
- Ingestion of harmful bacteria
- Soil contamination (chemical or organic)
- Intestinal blockage
- Risk of tetanus infection
Fortunately, the local people of Tuban are aware of these risks. They process the clay properly usually by smoking or baking it to reduce contamination and make it safer to eat.
How Is Ampo Clay Snack Tuban Made?
Making Ampo is a simple but delicate process. The steps are as follows:
- Select high-quality clay with a smooth texture, free of sand or gravel.
- Mix the clay with water gradually to form a soft, dough-like texture that doesn’t stick to the hands.
- Shape the clay into blocks and pound it with a wooden tool.
- Use a bamboo blade to shave thin layers from the clay block, creating stick-shaped pieces similar to wafer rolls (6–8 cm long).
- Smoke the clay sticks in a clay pot over a wood fire until they are dry and ready to eat.
This traditional preparation method gives Ampo its signature texture and appearance.
Conclusion
The tradition of eating clay in Tuban is a reflection of Indonesia’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. While it may seem unusual to outsiders, Ampo continues to be a meaningful part of local life. When properly processed, it not only serves as a unique snack but also represents the deep wisdom and customs of the Javanese people.
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