What is the mucus secreted by snails

The mucus secreted by snails is mainly composed of proteins, polysaccharides, and water, which have functions such as protecting the shell, reducing friction, and assisting movement. The components of this mucus are usually harmless when in contact with the human body, but they may carry parasites or bacteria and need to be fully heated before consumption.

Snails secrete mucus in their natural environment to maintain physiological functions. The protein and polysaccharide components in mucus can form a lubricating layer, helping snails reduce friction with rough surfaces while moving, while protecting their shells from microbial erosion. The viscosity of mucus varies with environmental humidity, and may be more pronounced under dry conditions. The mucus of wild snails may adsorb parasite eggs or pathogenic bacteria in water bodies, and if not thoroughly heated, it may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.

Artificially cultivated snails have a lower probability of carrying pathogens in their mucus due to controllable environments, but it is still recommended to boil for more than five minutes during cooking. Some people may experience slight itching on the skin when exposed to mucus, which is a sensitive reaction to heterologous proteins. Rinse with water to relieve it. Edible snails need to be soaked in salt water to induce them to spit out sediment, and the mucus and impurities attached to the shell should be removed with a brush.

It is recommended to wear gloves when handling snails to avoid direct contact with mucus. Blanching with boiling water before cooking can further kill bacteria. Snail meat is rich in high-quality protein and trace elements, but attention should be paid to its high cholesterol content. People with high blood lipids should control their intake. Cooking with spicy ingredients such as perilla and ginger can not only remove fishy smell but also neutralize coldness, making it more suitable for people with weak constitution.