In Tunisia, snails have almost replaced meat due to their cheapness (11 photos)
Snails are making a comeback in Tunisia, where they are high in protein, go well with salt and spices, and are much more affordable than red meat, which many residents cannot afford.
According to a study published in the journal Archaeological and Anthropological Sciences, snails have been eaten in Tunisia for more than 7,000 years. These days, they are mostly considered a delicacy in restaurants, but in Tunisia, they are becoming popular again as a convenient substitute for red meat, AP reports.
Snails have become a lifeline for some in Tunisia, where youth unemployment tops 40 percent and inflation remains high three years after record growth. The lack of jobs is fueling social unrest across the country, increasingly leading to migration to Europe.
Low in fat and high in iron, calcium and magnesium, snails are not only a valuable food product, but also an economic benefit. In a country where unemployment is high and average wages remain low, snails cost about half the price of beef per kilo, and sometimes even less if sold in portions.
With the rising prices of meat and poultry, more Tunisians are turning to more affordable sources of protein. In addition to their economic benefits, these alternatives are also gaining attention due to their environmental benefits. Research shows that snails are a more sustainable solution, as they produce significantly less carbon emissions and do not contribute to deforestation, as traditional livestock farming does.
[thumb]https://cn22.nevsedoma.com.ua/p/28/2864/113_files/d2628d6a0 39f80a02c56754b64ec1236.webp[/thumb]