PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, – Health authorities in Trinidad and Tobago are advising the public to avoid consuming giant African snails, following reports that the snails are being eaten as a delicacy.
The Ministry of Health issued a warning, highlighting that the giant African snail is a known carrier of the rat lungworm parasite (Angiostrongylus cantonensis), which can cause meningitis — an inflammation of the protective membranes around the brain and spinal cord.
It warned that human beings may become infected by ingesting raw or inadequately cooked snails, adding that “infections in children tend to be of greater severity and are often fatal”.
The ministry said that the snails also can be reservoirs for bacteria such as Salmonella, which can be the cause of food poisoning and that improper handling or inadequate cooking can lead to bacterial contamination.
“Some giant African snails, because of their feeding habits, might feed on plants or chemicals that could leave toxic residues in their bodies, potentially making them harmful if consumed. These toxins are not removed by any preparation or cooking.”
The ministry is also advising people who collect snails as part of an integrated pest management program to do so “with extreme caution”, and in accordance with guidelines outlined by the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries.
