Large-scale snail farming a hit in Ivory Coast
Côte d’Ivoire | Giant snails, which may weigh up to 500 grammes, reach a length of 10 centimetres, and are highly valued in the Ivory Coast, are sadly vanishing from the rainforest due to deforestation and pesticide use.
Locals are growing them in thriving farms in an attempt to preserve the species while also making money.
“One of the few farming methods where you won’t be required to purchase veterinarian feed or cover additional costs is snail farming, which also happens to be less costly and doesn’t require any veterinary supplies. Thus, it’s easier, cheaper, more natural, and organic “explained Bernus Bleu, the director and founder of Côte d’Ivoire Expert Escargots (CIEE).
Thousands of Ivorians have entered the field of snail farming after obtaining training since it is easy, profitable, and productive. The government reports that output has increased significantly, going from 25 to 250 tonnes of snails per month in just five years.
Approximately 1,500 remain in the humid southern region of Côte d’Ivoire today.
“We set up, train, and then repurchase the farmers. Naturally, our selling points are the snail shells, which are fed to animals. The director of CIEE said, “The third outlet is snail slime, which can be utilised to produce cosmetic products and from which we have the sole right to make soap.
In Azaguié, 40 km north of the city, four women combine snail mucus, coconut oil, green colouring, and scent to make soap and shower gel at the Côte d’Ivoire expertise escargots headquarters. In the little workshop, 5,000 soaps and 5,000 gel bottles are typically made every week.
“The skin is hydrated by snail mucin. According to workshop manager Nelly Blon, it slows down the ageing process of the skin, improves complexion, and moisturises.
In addition to being incredibly attractive, snails are a delicacy that are used in many Ivorian cuisines.
“Its sweetness makes it popular with many… A snail vendor named “La Jumelle” commented, “If it’s prepared properly, it tastes extremely good.
In the last 60 years, Côte d’Ivoire has lost almost 90% of its forest cover, mostly as a result of overuse of its agricultural resources, especially cocoa, of which it is the world’s largest producer.
Regular pesticide usage, deforestation, and climatic dangers are deadly to both people and wildlife.
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