Innovative Snail Farming At Jkuat: Dr. Kinoti's Research In Skin Care And Health Products
— written by Sanju on Nov. 2, 2024, 5:32 p.m.
At Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), the Department of Horticulture and Food Security is buzzing with a unique project: snail farming. Led by Dr. Paul Kinoti, a team of researchers is exploring the untapped potential of snail slime in skin care and health products.
They rear giant African land snails, classified as wild and approved by the Kenya Wildlife Service, known to produce high-quality slime, which is essential for their product line.
Dr. Kinoti explains that the team’s focus is on harnessing snails, often disregarded in Kenyan culture, to create products with significant health benefits. “We are researching how to generate products beneficial to our people and society. We’re developing cosmetics and body care items like soaps, creams, and shower gels, as well as pharmaceuticals in partnership, such as a cough syrup,” he told Citizen Digital.
This pioneering work aims to dispel negative perceptions of snail products and show their efficacy.
Snail slime is rich in collagen, known for making the skin supple, moisturizing it, and providing anti-aging effects. “It’s able to remove dead cells, rejuvenate the skin, and has antibacterial properties, which can aid in wound and burn healing,” Dr. Kinoti noted.
In today’s world, where many consumers are shifting toward organic and chemical-free products, snail slime offers an appealing alternative.
JKUAT rigorously tested the products, receiving positive feedback from groups like people with albinism, who benefit from its UV protection, and students, who reported impressive results with no side effects.
Dr. Kinoti hopes this research will encourage more Kenyans to explore snail farming, unlocking both economic and health benefits in a traditionally overlooked area.
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