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Snail Prices Shell-Shock French

Booming Eastern Europe having to pay harvesters better

By Kate Rockwood,  Newser Staff

Posted Jul 6, 2008 11:12 AM CDT

(Newser) – The French may soon be shelling out big bucks for the 14,000 tons of snails it consumes annually. Most actually originate in Eastern Europe, where growing economic development means rural families aren’t as willing to take up the demanding task of snail-gathering without better wages. And that, reports the BBC, will likely mean the end of cheap escargot for the French.

The majority of snails served in France actually originate in Eastern Europe, but economic development there is threatening to raise prices in France.
The majority of snails served in France actually originate in Eastern Europe, but economic development there is threatening to raise prices in France.   (Getty Images)
The French consume more than 14,000 tons of snails each year.
The French consume more than 14,000 tons of snails each year.   (Magnum Photos)
As the price of snail-gathering rises, the French can say bye-bye to cheap escargot.
As the price of snail-gathering rises, the French can say bye-bye to cheap escargot.   (Magnum Photos)
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