A Delicacy in Africa and Asia
In countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, and Côte d’Ivoire, the Giant African Snail (Lissachatina fulica) is a popular source of protein. There, snail farming is a structured industry, with farms raising the mollusks in controlled environments, free from parasites and toxins. The meat, often called “Congo meat” in some regions, is valued for being rich in protein, iron, and calcium, while also being low in fat.
Across Asia, particularly in India, Thailand, and Indonesia, the snail finds its way into soups, curries, and fried dishes. In rural communities, it is seen as a readily available, affordable source of food. Street vendors sometimes sell them grilled or stewed in spicy sauces, turning what many consider a pest into a profitable product.
Why It Works There—and Not Here
The difference lies in regulation and environment. In countries where Giant African Snail is consumed, snails are typically farmed under controlled conditions, ensuring they are safe to eat. The snails are purged, cleaned, and cooked thoroughly to eliminate harmful pathogens.
In Trinidad, however, the snail is considered an invasive agricultural pest, spreading uncontrollably in yards, farms, and drains. Local health authorities warn strongly against eating them because they can carry the rat lungworm parasite, which can cause severe illness in humans. Unlike in Africa or Asia, there is no established snail-farming industry here to guarantee safety.
Cultural Curiosity
This contrast makes the Giant African Snail a fascinating case study in food culture. In one part of the world, it is a slimy menace that damages crops and threatens health. In another, it is a delicacy served at family dinners and street food stalls. The difference comes down to farming practices, cultural traditions, and public health safeguards.
Should Trinidad Ever Consider It?
With rising global conversations around alternative proteins and sustainable farming, some might wonder if Trinidad could one day farm the Giant African Snail as food instead of fighting it as a pest. But for now, the risks far outweigh the rewards.
For Trinidadians, the Giant African Snail will remain what it is: a dangerous invader to be controlled, not consumed. But it’s worth remembering that elsewhere, what we fear, others savour.
