Snail Market Size - By Snail Type (Helix Aspersa, Helix Pomatia, Achatina Fulica, Otala Lactea, Cornu Aspersum), Form (Fresh snails, Canned snails, Frozen snails, Dried snails), Distribution Channel, Application, Regional Outlook & Global Forecast, 2023 – 2032

Snail Market Size

Snail Market size was valued at USD 593.4 million in 2022 and is estimated to grow at over 10.33% CAGR from 2023 to 2032, due to the rising demand for snail-based products and delicacies worldwide. This market primarily revolves around the farming, processing, and distribution of snails for various purposes. With an increasing focus on healthy and sustainable food options, snails have garnered attention for their low-fat, high-protein, and rich nutrient content.

The snail market encompasses both the culinary sector, where snails are considered a delicacy in many cuisines, and the cosmetics industry, where snail slime is utilized in skincare products for its purported rejuvenating and anti-aging properties. Snail farmers play a pivotal role in this market, ensuring the sustainable and controlled cultivation of snails to meet the growing demand. Advanced farming techniques and technologies have been introduced to enhance snail production efficiency while maintaining the quality and hygiene standards. Additionally, the market involves the processing of snails into various forms, such as canned snails, snail caviar, and snail-based beauty products, catering to different consumer preferences and requirements.

One of the foremost obstacles is the intricate and delicate nature of snail farming, which demands specific environmental conditions and controlled breeding environments. Maintaining these conditions consistently can be challenging, leading to fluctuations in snail production and quality.

Furthermore, consumer perception and acceptance of snail-based products in some cultures remain a hurdle. Overcoming cultural aversions to snails as food or cosmetics ingredients necessitates concerted efforts in marketing and education to highlight their nutritional value and benefits. Achieving widespread acceptance and adoption in these regions requires extensive awareness campaigns and targeted marketing strategies. Another notable challenge is the vulnerability of snail farming to disease outbreaks and environmental fluctuations. Snails are susceptible to various diseases and parasites, and maintaining robust biosecurity measures is crucial to prevent devastating losses.

COVID-19 Impact

One of the initial repercussions was the disruption in the global transportation and logistics networks, affecting the timely delivery of snail products to international markets. The imposition of travel restrictions and lockdown measures also impeded the movement of labour, impacting snail farming operations and leading to potential labour shortages and decreased productivity. Moreover, the pandemic induced shifts in consumer behaviour and preferences, resulting in fluctuations in demand for snail-based products. With many restaurants and gourmet markets temporarily closing or operating at reduced capacity, the demand for snail delicacies declined, affecting the profitability of snail farmers and processors.

Snail Market Trends

There is increasing utilization of snail mucin in the skincare and cosmetics industry. The recognition of snail mucin for its purported skin-rejuvenating and anti-aging properties has led to a surge in the development of snail mucin-based skincare products. This trend has spurred innovation in the formulation of various beauty and personal care products, driving the growth of the snail mucin cosmetics segment.

Also, the rising popularity of gourmet cuisines and fusion dishes globally has contributed to an expanded market for snail-based culinary products. Chefs and food enthusiasts are experimenting with snails in diverse recipes, integrating them into modern and traditional cuisines, thereby broadening the appeal of snail delicacies to a wider audience.

Snail Market Analysis

Based on snail type, the helix aspera segment held over USD 235.9 million revenue in 2022. Helix Aspersa, commonly known as the Brown Garden snail is known for its widespread availability and adaptability to different climatic conditions. Its versatile culinary applications and relatively higher yield compared to other species contribute to its dominance in the market. Helix Pomatia, or the Burgundy snail, captures a notable market share primarily in the gourmet culinary sector, especially in European markets. Its larger size and rich flavor profile make it a sought-after delicacy, commanding premium prices in upscale restaurants and gourmet food markets, particularly in France and other European countries.

Based on form, the fresh snails market accounted for 50% of the revenue share in 2022, driven by the demand for premium, high-quality snails in gourmet cuisines and culinary preparations. The freshness and distinct flavor profile of these snails appeal to chefs and consumers seeking authentic and natural ingredients for their dishes. Canned snails represent another substantial segment in the market, catering to the convenience-driven consumer base. The extended shelf life and easy storage of canned snails make them a popular choice for consumers and businesses seeking ready-to-use snail products for various culinary creations, contributing to their significant market presence in both retail and commercial sectors.

Based on distribution channel, the market is segmented as B2B & B2C. B2B sales hold a substantial market share, led by the bulk trade and transactions between snail farmers, processors, and large-scale buyers such as restaurants, food processing companies, and cosmetic manufacturers. This segment relies on efficient supply chains and streamlines logistics to facilitate the large-scale movement of snail products, catering to the demands of commercial clients and industries requiring snails for various applications.

Based on application, the snail market is segmented as Cosmetics and skincare, Pharmaceuticals, Food and beverages, Pet food, Agriculture and farming and Other. Food and beverage industry held the dominant market in 2022 and is anticipated to grow through the years. In the food and beverages segment, snails find applications in gourmet cuisine, catering to the culinary preferences of consumers seeking unique and exotic delicacies. This segment encompasses various snail-based dishes, appetizers, and gourmet preparations, contributing to the rich culinary landscape of different cultures and regions.

Asia Pacific snail market size dominated around USD 236.16 million in 2022. In countries like China and Vietnam, snail farming has experienced considerable expansion, propelled by the increased recognition of snails as a nutritious and sustainable protein source. These nations have embraced snail cultivation practices and developed thriving markets for both local consumption and export. The consumption of snails in Asian cuisines, especially in dishes like escargot, has increased, boosting the regional market share.

Snail Market Share

Some of the major companies operating in the snail industry are:

• Romanzini
• Peconic Escargot
• Darvja ltd
• LUMACA Italia
• Gaelic Escargot
• Bages Cargol S.L.
• Aspersa Snails International
• SABAROT WASSNER
• UAB Gardumeli
• SC EGAN PROD SSRL
• ESCAL S.A.
• Bourgogne Escargots

These companies focus on strategic partnerships, new product launch & commercialization for market expansion. Furthermore, these companies are heavily investing in research that allows them to introduce innovative products and garner maximum revenue in the market.
 

Romanzini, LUMACA Italia are the top 2 players in the snail market. Romanzini & LUMACA are both an Italian company that manufacture & distribute snails. They produce a wide range of snail products, including escargots, snail meat, and snail powder. Their products are sold to restaurants, supermarkets, and other food retailers around the world.
 

Snail Industry News

• Peter Monaghan, an Irish snail farmer, has ambitious plans to harness the potential of snail slime and excrement for the creation of beauty products. His company, Inis Escargot, will be offering products like moisturizers derived from snail mucin starting July 14th. This enterprising individual secured planning permission in January from the Cavan County Council to establish a 278.7-square meter (3,000-square foot) facility at his Virginia farm. This facility will include a laboratory, and within the next six to twelve months, he aims to commence production at his home base.
   

The snail market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue in USD Million & Units from 2018 to 2032, for the following segments:

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Market, By Snail Type

• Helix Aspersa
• Helix Pomatia
• Achatina Fulica
• Otala Lactea
• Cornu Aspersum

Market, By Form

• Fresh snails
• Canned snails
• Frozen snails
• Dried snails
• Other

Market, By Distribution Channel

• B2B
• B2C
• Supermarkets and hypermarkets
• Specialty stores
• Online retail
• Other

Market, By Application

• Cosmetics and skincare
• Pharmaceuticals
• Food and beverages
• Pet food
• Agriculture and farming
• Other

The above information has been provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • Australia
  • South Korea
  • Indonesia
  • Malaysia 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
• Middle East & Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Egypt