Snail Production

They were picked up from Liguria and fattened in snail gardens until they reached a stage suitable for consumption. Snails were popularly served with milk due to their stimulating effects, as stated by Pliny and Varro. The Romans were implemental in influencing the spread of snails and snail recipes to regions in Europe and the Mediterranean. These little pests were also introduced to the British Isles, where it is relished today. In the beginning of the Middle Ages, snails enjoyed the advantage of being considered neither fish nor meat, hence making them an ideal food to be consumed during Lent. Besides consumption, snails were also used in trade and soon after, in cultivation. For a good barter, snails had to be fatter, tastier and better. With this came the idea of feeding them a diet made of special herbs. Later, it was known that snails served as a remedy for various health issues. Modern techniques of conservation were introduced in the beginning of the 20th century. Today, most of the snail produce comes from Eastern Europe, Africa and Asia.