Snails are a species of molluscs called gastropods (Gastropoda mollusca), which includes over one hundred thousand different species. Most representatives of this species are characterized by the presence of a hard spiral shell. Since ancient times, many species of snails have been eaten by humans, and are also bred for decorative purposes, in aquariums and terrariums. The natural habitat of snails is water, but many species have successfully mastered land as well.
Chemical composition
Snail meat is considered a real delicacy due to its delicate structure and exquisite delicate taste. In addition, snails boast an incredibly rich chemical composition that includes many substances that are beneficial to the human body. Snail meat is made up of protein, water, and some fat. The chemical composition of the snail includes a large amount of vitamins and mineral elements: thiamine, pyridoxine, riboflavin, cobalamin, folic acid – in a word, almost all B vitamins, as well as vitamin K, vitamin PP, vitamin E and retinol, according to the content of which snails are practically record holders.
Snails, which are so rich in a high content of retinol, are used in the medical and cosmetic industries. Therefore, snail creams are an incredibly popular and rather expensive cosmetic product. Snail meat consists of high quality and easily digestible protein containing an essential and highly valuable amino acid – choline. In addition, the chemical composition of snails also includes mineral elements such as phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, copper, and calcium.
