Snail Market

Snail Market Size

The global snail market size reached USD 647.4 million in 2024. The market is expected to grow from USD 706.7 million in 2025 to USD 1.4 billion in 2034, at a CAGR of 8.5%. An increase in consumer knowledge for the use of snails in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food, and agriculture is likely to propel market growth. Snails are used as food either as fresh, canned, frozen, or dried due to their high protein, unique texture, and other health benefits like being an oxidant, collagen, and amino acids source. The expansion of snail application in skincare and pharmaceutical products has increased due to recognition of snail mucin for anti-aging and healing benefits. 

Regionally, the Asia Pacific leads the market share followed by France, Spain, and Italy, which have long-consumed snails both for culinary and cosmetic uses. North America and Europe are also emerging regions owing to innovation in snail-derived products and the growing concern for sustainable and green production. There is also an increase in the use of snails for natural fertilizers, pet foods and other agriculture activities, which marks diversification in the market.

Essential elements that are shaping the market include the eco-sustainable practices alongside clean label products and packaging solutions, which are becoming key differentiators for the brands. The rising acceptance and multifunctional reception of snails across diverse industries pointed towards further demand growth.

Snail Market Trends

• Rising Demand for snail-based skincare products: Snail mucin and dermis, especially those coming from helix aspersa and pomatia species, have been gaining rapid acceptance in the international market of beauty and skin care products due to its superb anti-aging, moisturizing, and healing properties. Snail-based skincare products, which have become quite popular due to the presence of collagen, elastin, and glycolic acid in them, claim effectiveness in scar, fine line, and wrinkle reduction. This shift is propelled by an increasing shift of consumers towards natural components skin care products. The emergence of cruelty-free eco-friendly clean label beauty products further increases the demand, expanding the use of snail mucin in skincare products all over the world. This is especially true in regions such as Asia, Europe, and North America.
  
• Integration of Snails in Pharmaceuticals and Natural Remedies: The appreciation of the various parts of a snail as medicine is quickly becoming the centre of attention in the pharmaceutical world. The slime from certain snails like Achatina Fulica is used in the making of anti-inflammatory, regenerative, and all healing medicines, which aid in the treatment of chronic diseases and wound healing. The compounds which are still under scientific study also have potential in improving gut health, boosting immunity, and serving as natural antioxidants. With the increase in demand for holistic, plant-based, and organic treatments, remedies which incorporate the use of snails are becoming more popular, especially in the USA, division of Europe, and certain regions of Asia where the practice of natural healing is highly accepted.
  
• Growth of snail-based pet food and agricultural applications:  Products obtained from snails are being used in the animal feed and agricultural industries. Smail-derived protein ingredients, as well as other nutrients, are being used more frequently in the food products of pet animals, particularly dogs and cats, especially premium and specialty brands. In agricultural practices, snail droppings are appreciated as a natural manure because of their mineral constituents which improve soil fertility. The trends noted above are being facilitated by the increasing concern about food production with organic farming as well as pet care nutrition. There is likely to be an explosive increase in snail-based products as consumers are becoming more health-and environmentally-friendly-focused regarding feed and crops.
  

Tariff Impact

The prospect of renewed protectionist trade policies and tariffs under a potential second Trump administration has introduced uncertainty for niche agricultural sectors like the snail market in the United States. While the U.S. market remains small and primarily import-reliant, particularly for gourmet escargot sourced from Europe — especially France, Spain, and Greece — heightened trade tensions and proposed tariffs on imported European agricultural products could disrupt this delicate supply chain.

During the Trump administration’s first term, similar tariff threats on European specialty foods, including cheese, wine, and seafood, demonstrated how vulnerable niche markets are to trade disputes. Should these policies re-emerge or expand under new leadership, increased duties on imported snails would directly raise costs for U.S. distributors, restaurants, and specialty food retailers who rely on European suppliers for high-quality escargot. This could lead to higher consumer prices, reduced availability, and possible substitution with lower-quality or domestically farmed alternatives, which currently lack the scale and culinary reputation of their European counterparts.

Moreover, proposed restrictions on imported specialty goods could impact culinary tourism and fine dining sectors where escargot plays a role in upscale menus. On the other hand, a tariff-protected market might incentivize limited domestic snail farming, though the U.S. lacks the established infrastructure and expertise for large-scale heliciculture. The ripple effect could be a short-term contraction in market availability followed by gradual adjustment through price hikes or alternative sourcing.

While the market is too niche to drive national trade policy, it remains exposed to the collateral effects of broader protectionist strategies advocated by Trump’s political platform, suggesting that, like other specialty food imports, it would likely face headwinds in a high-tariff environment, affecting both supply chains and culinary culture in the U.S.

Snail Market Analysis

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On the basis of type, the market is segmented into helix aspersa, helix pomatia, achatina fulica, and otala lactea. The helix aspersa hold a significant share at a valuation of USD 325.9 million in 2024.

• Because of its broad application in food, cosmetics, and medicine. In Europe and other regions, Helix aspersa is well known in the culinary industry due to its soft flesh which is savoured for being highly nutritious because it contains proteins, omega 3 fatty acids, and antioxidants.
  
• The cosmetic industry values its mucus for its anti-aging and healing effects, as it is used in therapeutics for wrinkles, scars, and acne. With the rise of natural skincare products, the demand for ingredients from Helix aspersa continues to increase.
  

The snail market from achatina fulica segment was valued at USD 185.2 million in 2024 and is expected to reckon USD 438.1 million in 2034.

• Known for its large size and high mucin yield, Achatina fulica is highly valued in cosmetic formulations, where its slime is rich in collagen, elastin, and glycolic acid, making it an effective ingredient for anti-aging, skin regeneration, and moisturizing products.
  
• As demand for natural, organic, and cruelty-free skincare ingredients grows, Achatina fulica is increasingly incorporated into high-end beauty treatments.
  

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On the basis of form, the snail market is segmented into fresh snails, canned snails, frozen snails, dried snails, and other. Frozen snails segment generated a value of USD 221.5 million in 2024 and is expected to grow at an 8.2% of CAGR during the forecast period.

• Fresh snails are still highly regarded in culinary marketplaces, especially in Europe, Asia, and Africa where they are incorporated in traditional meals. The greater emphasis on quality, fresh, locally produced foods which consumers are willing to pay more for in terms of gourmet and health-cantered meals, fuels this trend further.
  
• Canned snails are found to be in demand due to their economic value and portability. With global trade growing, there is greater consumption internationally, especially in Europe and Asia. Canned snails are also good for easy storage and convenience snails for ready meals which satisfied both busy consumers and gourmet chefs. 
  
• There is a growing demand for frozen seafood products which coupled with interest in easy to prepare, cost effective protein sources, aids in the increase of popularity of frozen snails especially in the Western markets and exports. The freshness and quality of frozen snails is an added advantage. 
  
• Dried snails are becoming more common in specialty and traditional foods in African and Asian cuisines which fuels their popularity in niche markets. The emphasis on easy to carry and longevity also plays into the trend. Additionally, markets that prioritize health and avoiding unnatural ingredients are likewise boosted with the demand for dried snails.
  

On the basis of distribution channel, the snail market is segmented into B2B, B2C, and others. B2B segment is projected to reach a value USD 412.5 million in 2024 and is expected to grow at an 8.4% of CAGR during the forecast period.

• The acquisition of raw snail products, as well as snail-derived ingredients, drives the demand for B2B marketing. Due to the multifunctional nature of snail-based products, this segment is expected to grow as more companies capitalize on these products for their health benefits.
  
• This part of the market for snails encapsulates B2C who sell fresh, canned, frozen, and dried snail meat, as well as skincare products made of snails. Growth of this segment due, especially in Europe and Asia, snail and other organic ingredient utilization in food and beauty products is gaining traction among the public.
  

On the basis of application, the snail market is segmented into cosmetics and skincare, pharmaceutical, food and beverages, pet food, agriculture and farming. Food and beverages segment is estimated to hold a value USD 366.3 million in 2024 and is expected to grow at an 8.3% of CAGR during the forecast period.

• The snail mucin cosmetics and skincare industry are expected to grow over the forecast period due to its demand in anti-aging, moisturizing, and regenerative products. There is a growing tendency in the beauty sector to use organic and natural ingredients in skincare formulations which is propelling the use of snail extract in anti-wrinkle and acne cosmetics.
  
• The growing focus on healthy eating is boosting the demand for snails as a replacement for traditional meats because of their high protein and low-fat content. Snails are also popular in processed and gourmet foods. This is particularly true for the European and Mediterranean markets along with increasing demand for sustainable and novel protein sources.
  

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The snail market is dominated by U.S, which accounted for a revenue of USD 34 million of total revenue in 2024.

• Growth of the U.S. market is moderate due to the rising use of snail-based products in cosmetics, food, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. Cosmetic products have advanced the most with anti-aging, hydrating and skin rejuvenating snail mucin leading to increased interest in snail skincare, especially in premium beauty lines.
  
• The pharmaceutical industry is also gaining traction as snail mucin for tissue regeneration and wound healing, while the food industry slowly starting to recognize snails as a sustainable and healthy protein source in the context of increasing interest towards gourmet and exotic food.
  
• Pet food is another potent new frontier arising from the trend towards natural high protein diets. The use of snail manure as an organic fertilizer compliments the US market's drive towards sustainability in agriculture.
  
• Natural and multifunctional products could enhance growth opportunities for the U.S. market which seem promising now.
  

Snail Market Share

Top 5 companies include Bourgogne Escargots, Sabarot Wassner, Escal S.A., Gaelic Escargot, and Lumaca Italia. These companies contribute around 40% of the market share.

These companies hold strong positions globally due to their extensive experience. Their diverse product portfolios, backed by robust production capabilities and distribution networks, enable them to meet the rising demand across various regions

Snail Market Companies

Bourgogne Escargots

Bourgogne Escargots, founded in 1967 and headquartered in Chevigny-Saint-Sauveur, France, specializes in the production and sale of escargots and seafood products. The company offers a variety of products including canned, fresh, and frozen stuffed escargots, catering primarily to supermarkets and restaurant wholesalers. Bourgogne Escargots is known for its commitment to quality and gourmet delicacies, making it a prominent player in the escargot market.

Sabarot Wassner

Sabarot Wassner, established in 1819, is a French company renowned for its supply of dried vegetables, mushrooms, and snails. Based in Haute-Loire, Sabarot is a leader in the production of Puy green lentils and has diversified into wild mushrooms and Burgundy snails. The company controls all phases of production, ensuring high-quality products for the catering industry and supermarkets. Sabarot's long history and dedication to natural, healthy products have made it a trusted name in the food industry.

Escal S.A.

Escal S.A., founded in 1976 and based in Strasbourg, France, is a specialist in frozen seafood and escargots. The company has grown significantly over the years, reaching a global turnover of 143 million euros in 2018. Escal offers a wide range of frozen products, including seafood and snails, under multiple brand names. The company's commitment to quality and innovation has established it as a key player in the frozen food market.

Gaelic Escargot

Gaelic Escargot, headquartered in Garryhill, County Carlow, Ireland, is a pioneering snail farm and research center specializing in breeding edible snails for both domestic and international markets. Founded by Eva Milka in 2013, the farm focuses on the Helix Aspersa Müller variety and operates as a free-range, outdoor facility. Gaelic Escargot also provides training for aspiring snail farmers and is dedicated to promoting the health benefits and culinary potential of escargots.

Lumaca Italia

Lumaca Italia is an Italian company dedicated to the breeding of full-cycle, outdoor gastronomy snails. Located in Abruzzo, the company specializes in the Helix Aspersa Müller species, ensuring natural and high-quality snail production without the use of pesticides or chemical additives. Lumaca Italia prides itself on its commitment to sustainability and the superior taste and texture of its snails, catering to gourmet markets and discerning chefs.

Snail Industry News:

• In March 2024, CNN recognized the CosRX Advanced Snail All In One Cream as a recommended moisturizer for acne sufferers which enabled the company to focus on its end-users and market niche products effectively. Also, the increasing notoriety of the product alongside the endorsement from CNN has enhanced the business globally.
  
• In October 2023, Elle, a global French lifestyle magazine focused on women's fashion and beauty, ranked Yeouth neck firming cream as one of the best neck firming creams for the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles. It has green tea, Vitamin C, and other antioxidants for skin tightening around the neck region.
  

The snail market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue in (USD Million) & Volume in (Kilo Tons) from 2021 – 2034 for the following segments:

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Market, By Type

• Helix aspersa
• Helix pomatia
• Achatina fulica
• Otala lactea

Market, By Form

• Fresh snails
• Canned snails
• Frozen snails
• Dried snails
• Others

Market, By Distribution channel

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

Market, By Application

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

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

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