What It Is
Snails are soft-bodied mollusks highly valued as a delicacy in many parts of the world. The African Giant Land Snail (Achatina achatina and Archachatina marginata) is especially prized for its large size, rich nutritional content, and unique taste. Snail meat is packed with protein, iron, calcium, magnesium, and essential amino acids while being very low in fat and cholesterol, making it an ideal healthy food choice.
What Export of It Is
Snail export involves the farming, processing, preservation, and international shipment of live snails, frozen snails, or dried snail meat. Nigeria is one of the largest producers of African Giant Land Snails, making it a competitive supplier in the global market. Snails are in high demand in Europe, North America, and Asia due to the growing popularity of exotic and healthy protein sources.
Uses
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Food: Prepared as pepper soup, stews, grills, and fried delicacies.
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Nutritional: High-protein diet food for health-conscious consumers.
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Cosmetic Industry: Snail slime (mucin) is used in skincare for anti-aging and healing.
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Medicinal: Traditionally used in remedies for hypertension, ulcers, and wound healing.
Export Specifications
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Form: Live, frozen, or dried snails
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Size: Medium to jumbo sizes (100g – 350g per snail)
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Moisture Content (for dried): ≤ 12%
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Packaging: Airtight sealed packs, frozen vacuum bags, or ventilated cartons (for live snails)
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Shelf Life:
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Frozen: 12–18 months
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Dried: 18–24 months
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Live: 4–8 weeks under controlled storage
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Packaging & Shipping
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Packaging Options: 10kg, 20kg, 25kg, or custom sizes
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Shipping Mode: Air freight (for live/frozen) or sea freight (for dried)
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MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity): 1 ton (negotiable for trial orders)
Top Import Markets
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Europe: France, Spain, Italy, UK
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North America: USA, Canada
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Asia: China, Japan, South Korea
HS Code
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HS Code: 0307.60 – Snails, live, fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or in brine
