Why do smart importers choose frozen Baigai for global markets?
In the growing seafood export industry, Baigai (Babylonia spirata) is turning heads as a niche yet profitable mollusc. Known for its beautiful spiral shell and sweet, tender meat, Baigai is rising in demand across Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, and the Middle East.
But for buyers outside harvesting regions like Myanmar or Southeast Asia, one question always comes up:
Should you buy fresh or frozen Baigai?
Let’s dive into the key differences, advantages, and the smartest option for seafood importers.
What is Baigai?
Baigai, also known as the Babylon Snail, is a type of marine gastropod shellfish. It’s native to warm tropical waters and is a staple in Japanese izakaya menus, Chinese hotpot restaurants, and Southeast Asian street food. The meat is tender, slightly chewy, and absorbs flavour well, making it perfect for boiling, grilling, or wok-frying.
Frozen Baigai: Smart, Safe, and Scalable
For most international seafood importers, frozen Baigai is the better option. Why?
Longer Shelf Life: Frozen Baigai can last 6–12 months in cold storage without losing taste or texture.
Safe Shipping: Proper block or IQF freezing preserves freshness and reduces spoilage.
Clean Processing: Export-grade Baigai is washed, sorted, and packed under hygiene protocols.
Stable Supply: Unlike fresh, frozen stock can be stored and shipped on demand year-round.
At Wormhole Seafood, we use blast freezing and block methods to lock in freshness, giving your buyers the closest experience to live-caught Baigai.
Need custom packaging or size grading for your market? We can help.
When Is Fresh Baigai Worth It?
Fresh Baigai offers visual appeal and high-end presentation, but it comes with challenges:
Very short shelf life (24–48 hours once caught)
Requires live or chilled logistics
Risk of loss from handling or delayed customs
Limited availability in large volumes
This option is only suitable for nearby markets or niche luxury buyers with fast access to ports.
Ready to Add Baigai to Your Product Line?
Baigai offers strong margins, premium appeal, and growing demand. Whether you're a wholesaler, distributor, or importer, frozen Baigai is a smart addition to your catalogue.