The Exclusive Escargot range are farmed on just 1/4 of an acre of land on the Ryan’s family farm in Tuam, which is amazing when you think of the use of land for more conventional farming. Between 400,000 – 500,000 Irish snails are produced here annually. Snails are largely prolific with them being both male and female in gender, breeding results in both partners laying around 100 baby snails at a time. They reach their maturity between 7 and 8 months. A mature snail will have a slight curve at the bottom of their shell indicating they’ve reached full maturity. Harvesting usually begins in January and takes place over 4 months.

The farm is organised in such a way to shelter and protect the snails. Loose timber planks are laid out in pyramid style on a centre beam. On each side of the pyramid you’ll find rapeseed and flouring bee plants. The snails hibernate during the day on the underside of the planks and come out at night to feed on the plants. Their diet is supplemented by specially formulated feed. The snails are protected from birds and rodents by netting and high metal sheeting located around the perimeter of the farm. The boundaries of

While Steven currently has to send his live snails abroad to be processed as there is not suitable facility in Ireland to do so, he has secured financial investment to set up his own purpose built facility on his land in Tuam. All of the farming, processing and finishing touches will be managed by Steven and his team.

And what a finished result it is. The escargot are stored in natural brine and are ready for cooking or serving for chefs or fans of this delicacy. High in protein, escargot are becoming more and more popular in the Irish market. They can be enjoyed simply with some garlic butter and parsley. Don’t knock it until you try it, you’ll be pleasantly surprised we assure!