Snails Stolen from French Farm

A gourmet snail farm in northern France has fallen victim to a significant theft. L'Escargot Des Grands Crus, located in Bouzy near Reims, reported that thieves stole their entire stock of fresh and frozen snails, valued at €90,000 (approximately £79,000 or $104,000). This incident has dealt a severe blow to the farm, especially as it occurred just before the holiday season.

The theft took place overnight, with the criminals cutting through a border fence to gain access to the farm buildings. The farm's manager, Jean-Mathieu Dauvergne, expressed his shock and concern, stating that the stolen goods included both finished products and raw materials from his laboratory.

This loss is particularly devastating for the farm as it supplies high-end restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Les Crayères in Reims, as well as delicatessens and private clients. The theft has left the farm scrambling to replenish their stock to meet the increased demand during the Christmas and New Year celebrations, when snails are a popular delicacy in France.