PACKAGE OF PRACTICES FOR HELICULTURE FARMING
HELICULTURE
Snail production, also known as heliculture, is a growing non traditional farming industry providing a unique and sustainable source of protein. Here’s an overview:
Why Heliculture?
1. It has low environmental impact
2. High protein content of up to 70%
3. Low fat and calorie content for those concerned about calorie in their meat
4. Rich in micronutrients (iron, calcium, vitamin B12)
5. Suitable for small-scale farming
Snail Species—
Common species include :
1. Roman snail – Helix pomatia
2. Garden snail – Helix aspersa
3. African giant snail-Archachatina marginata
Production Systems:
This can take the form of :
1. Intensive: Controlled environments, climate-controlled greenhouses
2. Semi-intensive: Outdoor enclosures with shelter and feeding systems
3. Extensive: Natural habitats with minimal human intervention
Market– Opportunities:
1. Fresh snails for restaurants and markets
2. Canned snails for export
3. Snail caviar
4. Snail meat processing (sausages, burgers)
5. Cosmetics and pharmaceutical applications
Challenges —-
Like any other production system, some challenges that could be encountered include:
1. Climate and humidity control
2. Disease management
3. Predator protection
4. Feed quality and availability
5. Market education and acceptance
PACKAGE OF PRACTICES FOR HELICULTURE FARMING
