Grape Marc as a Functional Feed Ingredient for Farmed Snails (Cornu aspersum maximum): Effects on Production Performance, Parasitological Status, and Meat Quality

In countries where edible snails are a valued food source, improving snail meat quality is a priority. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of grape marc (GM) supplementation in the diet of <i>Cornu aspersum maximum</i>, relative to production performance, animal health and quality of snail meat. GM was added in feed for snails at an inclusion rate of 0%, 7% and 14%. The results demonstrated that GM supplementation can be included in the diet of farmed snails, resulting in a slight increase in feed intake without compromising growth performance. The inclusion of GM in the diet reduces from 2480 EPG (parasites' eggs per gram of feces) after a non-enriched diet, compared to 700 EPG in the feces of snail fed supplemented diets. Nutritionally, the highest dry matter (24.14%) was observed after 14% feed enrichment. Feed enrichment improved the tenderness of boiled fillets (close to 6 N), with no color changes. Enriched diet may lead to the production of functional food which fulfils consumers' demands for high-quality products. Notably, this was the first study that used GM as a feed component in heliciculture, highlighting its potential as an alternative and sustainable dietary source.