Snail secretion filtrate is a process by which the snail secretes a liquid substance called mucin. This mucin is composed of glycoproteins, proteins, and other compounds that act as an adhesive and lubricant. It helps the snail to move around and adhere to surfaces, while also providing protection from predators.
The snail secretion filtrate also plays an important role in the environment by helping to keep soil moist and aiding in nutrient cycling. Therefore, snail secretion filtrate has been used in cosmetics for its moisturizing properties, while snail mucin extract has been used in medical treatments for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Otherwise, snails would be used as feed for some animals like reptiles, fish, and birds, as a protein source because their secretion contains nutrients that some animals can’t source for themselves including lipids and proteins.
Sometimes, snails are also seen as a plague, having to be removed from plantations in order to save the entire crops.
The different methods used to extract the snail secretion filtrate
Snail secretion has long been used in traditional medicine and cosmetics due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and antioxidant properties. Extracting snail secretion is a complex process that involves various methods. The most commonly used methods are manual extraction, mechanical extraction, ultrasonic extraction, and enzymatic extraction.
Manual extraction
It is the simplest but also the most labor-intensive method of extracting snail secretion. It involves manually collecting secretions from snails with a syringe or pipette.
Mechanical extraction
Utilizes machines to break down the mucus layer of the snails and extract the secretions from within them.
Ultrasonic extraction
Uses sound waves to break down the mucus layer and extract secretions from the snail’s body.
Finally, enzymatic extraction
Uses enzymes to break down proteins in the mucus layer of snails for easy removal of their secretions.
Is the extraction of snail secretion legal?
The legality of snail secretion extraction is a controversial topic with many people debating whether it should be legal or not. The extraction of snail secretion, also known as snail slime, involves taking the mucus-like substance from snails for use in cosmetics and other products.
While some believe that this process is necessary for the production of these products, others are concerned about the potential harm it could cause to the snails and their environment.
While there are no specific laws banning the extraction, in some countries it’s forbidden to serve snails in foods without the customers’ permission.
Is the extraction safe for snails?
Because these animals are not killed or tested for any cosmetics on them during the extraction of snail secretion, it cannot be considered animal cruelty.
In addition to that, once the extraction process is finished, the snails are returned to special areas where they can feed without affecting the crops.
However, there is always the risk that some snails will not support the process and will die afterward.
From which species is the snail secretion extracted?
Snail secretion is a type of mucus that is extracted from a variety of snail species. The most commonly used species for this purpose are Helix Aspersa, Helix Pomatia, and Helix Lucorum snails.
These snails produce a filtrate secretion which is then collected and processed to extract the snail secretion. The snail secretion has many beneficial properties such as anti-aging, moisturizing, and regenerative properties which make it an ideal ingredient in skincare products.
How to ensure quality extracts when collecting filtrates from snails
Collecting filtrates from snails is a complex process that requires careful attention to ensure that the quality of the extracts is maintained. To ensure quality extracts, it is important to consider a number of factors such as collecting methods, storage methods, and quality control measures.
The collection method used can have a significant impact on the quality of the extracts obtained. Therefore, it is important to use methods that yield high-quality filtrates and avoid those that could result in contaminated or low-quality extracts.
Additionally, proper storage techniques should be employed to maintain the integrity of the extract until it is ready for use. Finally, various quality control measures should be taken throughout the process to ensure that only high-quality extracts are produced.
Due to this, the extraction of snail secretion must be left in the hands of specialized companies, which must have the necessary permits.
Sources:
https://theklog.co/how-snail-mucin-is-made/
