The breeding of giant snails in Ivory Coast: a trend that continues to grow
Over the past five years, the breeding of giant snails has experienced considerable growth in Côte d’Ivoire. More and more Ivorian entrepreneurs are launching into this activity in order to meet the growing demand for this luxury product. Today, monthly production is around 250 tonnes, demonstrating the enthusiasm for this sector.
To understand this phenomenon, it is interesting to look at the reasons which pushed the Ivorian authorities to encourage the breeding of giant snails. In fact, these species, mainly present in forests, were once gathered in the traditional way. However, deforestation and the use of pesticides threatened their survival. In order to preserve these snails, breeding appeared to be the ideal solution.
In the south of Côte d’Ivoire, around fifty breeder cooperatives have been set up. These breeders have undergone rigorous training in order to apply the best breeding standards. Fattening is the recommended method, thus making it possible to obtain regular production throughout the year. Additionally, breeding giant snails requires little investment, which attracts many young entrepreneurs.
The results are impressive: in just five years, production increased from 25 tonnes per year to 250 tonnes per month, according to data from the Ministry of Animal Resources. This considerable increase helps meet the growing demand in the local market. However, the giant snail remains a luxury product due to its high cost. Sold between 7,000 and 10,000 CFA francs/kg (i.e. between 10 and 15 euros per kilo), it is mainly consumed by the Ivorian middle class.
But the opportunities in this sector do not stop there. Every part of the snail is used, which creates new perspectives. For example, the shell is used in poultry feed, while the slime is used in cosmetic products. Additionally, snail meat is exported to neighboring countries such as Ghana, Togo, Benin and Cameroon. Building on this success, the Ivorian authorities aim to improve processing conditions in order to develop an Ivorian label which could then conquer the European market.
The breeding of giant snails in Côte d’Ivoire is therefore a flourishing activity which meets local demand and which is gradually positioning itself on the international market. This success demonstrates the commitment of Ivorian breeders to preserve the species while developing sustainable economic activity.