In the rural areas near Akouda, a village in central Tunisia, many young men without jobs have started collecting snails to earn money. This trend began when food prices rose sharply, making beef and chicken too expensive for many families. Now, local markets are seeing more people buying snails, which are found on rocks and leaves in nearby fields. According to a study in Archaeological and Anthropological Sciences, people in Tunisia have been eating snails for more than 7,000 years. While snails are often considered a fancy dish in Western countries, in Tunisia they are becoming a smart, low-cost food choice.

Youth unemployment in Tunisia is over 40%, and inflation is still high. These challenges have made it harder for families to afford basic food, leading many to see snails as a more affordable and sustainable option. Snails are nutritious—they are high in iron, calcium, and magnesium and low in fat. A bowl of snails sells for about 5 dinars ($1.60), while a kilo of lamb can cost more than 60 dinars ($19.30). Experts also say snail farming is better for the environment than raising cows or sheep, as snails produce fewer carbon emissions and do not cause deforestation. During Ramadan, more people in Tunis enjoyed snails, showing a shift in food habits.