A number of species in this family are valued as food items, including Cornu aspersum (formerly Helix aspersa) the brown or garden snail, and Helix pomatia the “escargot”. The biologies of these two species in particular have been thoroughly studied and documented.

The shells of these snails are mostly rather globular in shape. In some genera, such as Cepaea, the shells are brightly colored and patterned. The animal is capable of complete retraction within the shell. The tail is without a mucous gland or projection.

The family is native to Eurasia and belongs the Western Palearctic group. However some species, notably Cornu aspersum, have been introduced and become established in numerous different areas worldwide. Many accidental introductions happen because the eggs of most Helicidae are laid in the soil, and they may thus easily travel unnoticed along with landscaping plants.