Fatty acid profile and mineral content of the wild snail (Helix pomatia) from the region of the south of the Turkey

The fatty acid and mineral compositions in the flesh of wild snail (Helix pomatia) collected in the region of Cukurova in Turkey were evaluated. Proximate analysis of snails showed that they are rich in protein (18%) and low in lipid (0.49%). The main fatty acids detected were C16:0 (12%) C18:0 (19%), C22:0 (7%), C18:1 n-9 (17%), C18:2 n-6 (16%) and C20:2 n-11.14c (10%). The total SFA, MUFA and PUFA content of lipids were 37.87, 19.65 and 25.83% of total fatty acids, respectively. The major minerals found were Ca, P, K, Mg and Na. However, Fe, Mn and Zn contents of snail meat are less than 2 mg/100 g. The results of this study have showed that snails are good sources of protein and minerals. © Springer-Verlag 2005