Imitation crab, often called surimi, is a common ingredient in sushi rolls, seafood salads, and other dishes. Its mild flavor and shredded texture make it a versatile substitute for pricier crab meat. However, many people wonder about the origins and ingredients of this seafood product – specifically, is imitation crab made from shellfish?
Quick Answer
Imitation crab is not actually made from crab, but is a seafood product derived from white fish. So it does not contain any shellfish ingredients. However, imitation crab is often processed in facilities that also handle shellfish like crab, shrimp, and lobster. So there is a risk of cross-contamination for those with shellfish allergies.
What is Imitation Crab Made Of?
Imitation crab is made using surimi, a seafood product originating in Japan. Surimi is a paste made from various white fish such as pollock, hake, and cod. The process for making surimi involves:
- First filleting white fish and grinding it into a fish paste
- Mixing the fish paste with additives like salt, egg whites, and transglutaminase (a natural binding agent)
- Shaping the paste into various forms and textures using extrusion and molding
- Cooking the formed surimi to set it
- Dyeing and flavoring the surimi to resemble crab meat
So while imitation crab contains real seafood in the form of white fish paste, it does not actually include any crab meat. The crab-like texture and flavor comes from additional ingredients mixed into the surimi.
Why is it Called Imitation Crab?
Imitation crab is labeled as such because its intended purpose is to mimic the flavor, texture, and appearance of real crab meat. Manufacturers shape and cure the fish surimi using techniques that give it a similar shredded texture to crab.
They also add crab flavorings, fish broth, and seaweed to make it taste like crab. Coloring agents like carotenoids or paprika extract give it a reddish-orange hue to resemble real crab meat.
By using the term “imitation crab” on packaging, brands are up front that their product is not actually made from crab, but is intended to substitute for crab in various dishes. This helps set consumer expectations.
Common Imitation Crab Brands
Some of the most popular brands of imitation crab include:
- Krab Classic
- Louis Kemp Crab Delights
- Bumble Bee Lump Crab
- Chicken of the Sea Imitation Crab
- MayoCoba Imitation Crab
- Trader Joe’s Imitation Crab
These brands can be found in the refrigerated seafood section at most major grocery stores. They offer imitation crab in a variety of forms like chunks, shreds, sticks, and flakes. Prices range from $3 to $7 for an 8-12 ounce pack.
Nutrition Facts for Imitation Crab
Imitation crab is low in calories and fat compared to real crab. A 3 ounce serving of imitation crab contains:
- Calories: 82
- Protein: 11g
- Carbs: 3g
- Fat: 1g
It provides a good amount of protein, while being low in sugar and total fat. The process of making surimi removes much of the fat found in the raw fish. Imitation crab also supplies minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
However, real crab meat contains more of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. Imitation crab is not a significant source of vitamins or minerals. It has added salt and additives.
Imitation Crab and Shellfish Allergies
Imitation crab does not actually contain any crab or other shellfish as ingredients. The main component is white fish surimi. So those with allergies to crab, shrimp, lobster, and other crustaceans can generally eat imitation crab without issue.
However, there is a risk of cross-contamination during manufacturing. Imitation crab products are often produced in facilities that also process real shellfish like shrimp and crab. Trace amounts could make it into the finished imitation crab.
Those with severe shellfish allergies need to avoid products processed alongside shellfish. Checking ingredient labels carefully and contacting manufacturers about potential cross-contamination is advised.
Uses for Imitation Crab
Because of its mild flavor and shredded texture similar to crab, imitation crab can be used in a variety of dishes:
- Sushi rolls – Many vegetarian sushi rolls use imitation crab in place of real crab
- Seafood salads – Imitation crab adds fish flavor and crunch to salads
- Crab cakes – For a lower cost alternative to real crab cakes
- Shellfish stews and bisques – Mimics texture of crab or lobster meat
- Sandwiches – Imitation crab salad is a popular sandwich filling
It works well in any recipe that calls for crab or lobster meat. The imitation crab gives a similar flavor and texture at a fraction of the price. Adjust seasonings in recipes to taste, as it may need some extra crab seasoning or lemon juice to boost the flavor.
Price Comparison
Imitation crab is considerably cheaper than real crab:
| Seafood | Price per pound |
|---|---|
| Imitation crab | $3-$7 |
| Real crab (snow crab) | $15-$30 |
The cheaper price makes imitation crab ideal for use in seafood dishes or appetizers where a large amount of crab is called for. It provides big savings compared to using all real crab.
Quality and Taste
While imitation crab meat is less expensive, it also has a different taste and texture from real crab:
- Real crab has a sweet, briny flavor and delicate flaky texture
- Imitation crab is milder in flavor, and can taste overly fishy or salty if poor quality
- The shredded texture of imitation crab is not quite as delicate or flaky
- Coloring added to imitation crab gives it an unnatural orange hue
Top brands like Krab Classic or Chicken of the Sea do offer quality imitation crab that looks and tastes quite similar to real crab. But side by side, most people can tell the difference. Real crab offers superior flavor and texture.
So for dishes where the crab is a central focus like crab cakes, use real crab. For recipes where it’s a minor ingredient or filler, imitation crab can provide excellent value.
Pros of Imitation Crab
Some benefits to using imitation crab include:
- Much less expensive than real crab
- Mildly sweet seafood flavor
- Shredded texture works well in many dishes
- Widely available at major grocery stores
- Low in calories
- No shellfish for those with allergies
- Long shelf life when refrigerated
For home cooks, budget-conscious restaurants, or large gatherings, imitation crab can provide big savings compared to using all real crab. Its convenience and versatility add to the appeal.
Cons of Imitation Crab
Some downsides to keep in mind:
- Lower quality taste and texture vs real crab
- Heavily processed combination of fish, additives, and coloring
- Not considered a healthy or nutritious food
- Can contain excess sodium from salt and preservatives
- Risk of cross-contamination with shellfish allergens
While cheaper, imitation crab lacks the premium flavor, texture, and nutrition of real crab. There are health concerns due to the additives and high sodium content. Those with shellfish allergies need to use caution as well.
The Bottom Line
So in summary, is imitation crab made from shellfish? No, imitation crab’s main ingredient is fish surimi made from pollock or other white fish. While it’s designed to mimic the taste and texture of real crab, it does not actually contain crab or other shellfish meat.
However, the manufacturing process means imitation crab could potentially contain shellfish allergens from cross-contamination. People with shellfish allergies should be very cautious and inspect labels closely for shared facility warnings.
Imitation crab makes an affordable alternative to real crab, but lacks some of the flavor, texture, and nutrition. Consider costs and recipe needs when deciding whether to use real or imitation crab. For many cooked dishes, the imitation works perfectly well. But for special occasions or raw preparations, splurge on real crab for the best quality.
