HELIX POMATIA – Vineyard, Garden, or White Snail

Helix Pomatia, known as the vineyard snail, is considered the most prized edible snail species in Europe. Its meat is rich in protein, low in fat, and highly valued in both gastronomy and dietary nutrition. In Serbia, it is most commonly found in Vojvodina and the Danube region, while ESCO Food carefully processes it for both domestic and international markets.

 

What is Helix Pomatia?

  • Latin name: Helix Pomatia

  • Also known as: Vineyard snail, garden snail, white snail

  • Origin: Central and Southern Europe

  • Habitat: Moist areas, vineyards, forest edges

  • Shell size: 4–5 cm in diameter, with 4–5 spirals

  • Color: Yellowish-brown, sometimes with a white lip thickening

The vineyard snail is the most widespread and most valued species of the Helix genus. Its shell is firm, spherical, and conical, while the meat is used in premium culinary specialties across Europe.

 

Nutritional Value (per 100 g)

Nutrient Amount
Energy Value 80–90 kcal
Proteins 16 g
Fat 1 g
Carbohydrates 2 g
Water 79 g
Calcium 170 mg
Iron 3.5 mg
Magnesium 250 mg
Vitamins A, C, B-complex trace amounts
 
 
 

Helix Pomatia meat is rich in collagen, allantoin, omega‑3 and omega‑6 fatty acids, making it ideal for skin regeneration, bone health, and nervous system support.

 

Culinary Use

Helix Pomatia is most often prepared in:

  • Escargot with garlic and butter – the classic French recipe

  • Snails in tomato sauce – Mediterranean style

  • Preserved in brine – for quick preparation and serving

ESCO Food processes snails manually under strict quality control: cleaning, thermal treatment, meat extraction, packaging in jars with spices, or freezing for professional use.

 

Ecological Importance and Regulation

Collection is permitted only in designated areas and during specific periods, based on licenses issued by the Ministry of Environmental Protection. Processing companies must comply with official guidelines and pay the required fees before the season begins.

 

Helix Pomatia is not only a delicacy—it is a nutritionally rich, ecologically important, and gastronomically sophisticated food. Whether part of traditional cuisine or an exclusive restaurant menu, the vineyard snail deserves a place on your plate.