Category: Mollusks

With a rich history stretching back to ancient Rome, snails have long been cherished as a delicacy, but many question their health credentials. A 3-ounce serving of plain snail meat boasts an impressive 14-17 grams of protein, making it a surprisingly lean protein source. So, are escargot snails healthy to eat?

According to research published in the *International Journal of Tropical Agriculture*, snail meat is a highly nutritious food, often superior in protein and mineral content to other common meats. This low-fat, high-protein delicacy offers a powerful nutritional profile, raising the question: What is the nutritional value of a water snail?

While often categorized differently across cuisines, a snail is definitively a type of meat, specifically belonging to the phylum Mollusca. These gastropods are a nutritious source of protein that has been consumed by humans for thousands of years, evolving from a survival food to a delicacy in many cultures.

With over 85,000 species, the class Gastropoda is the largest group within the phylum Mollusca. Many people mistake these slow-moving creatures for insects, but what does a snail count as in biological terms? The definitive answer lies in their unique classification and characteristics, which set them apart from the insect world.

According to several studies, snail meat has been consistently reported to have a low fat and cholesterol content, making it a healthy protein alternative. Despite this evidence, a common misconception persists regarding snails being high in cholesterol, which may deter health-conscious consumers from enjoying this nutrient-rich delicacy. This article will delve into the factual nutritional data to clarify the truth about snails and cholesterol.

Over 100,000 pounds of queen conch meat was imported into the US from Puerto Rico in 2019, highlighting its popularity as a seafood. This popular delicacy raises a common classification question: Is conch a shellfish? The simple answer is yes, but its true biological identity as a marine mollusk is more specific and fascinating.