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Also known as: krab meat, surimi seafood
Per 100g
Nutrition data source: USDA FoodData Central
Common measurement equivalents in grams
Imitation crab can be a part of a balanced diet, offering a lower-fat, lower-calorie, and lower-cholesterol alternative to real crab meat. It provides a source of lean protein, primarily from pollock or other whitefish. However, it is a processed food that often contains added sugars, sodium, and starches, so moderation is key.
Imitation crab is primarily made from surimi, a paste created from finely minced and washed fish, usually pollock. This surimi is then mixed with other ingredients like starch (often wheat or tapioca), egg whites, sugar, salt, vegetable oil, and artificial flavorings and colorings to mimic the taste and texture of real crab meat.
Per 100g, imitation crab typically contains around 95 calories, 7.6g of protein, 13.3g of carbohydrates, and 0.5g of fat. It's relatively low in fat and calories but has a moderate amount of carbohydrates due to added starches and sugars.
Most imitation crab products are not gluten-free because they commonly contain wheat starch as a binder. If you have a gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, always check the ingredient label carefully for certified gluten-free options, as some brands do offer them.
No, imitation crab is neither vegan nor vegetarian. It is made from fish (surimi), which means it is a seafood product. Additionally, some varieties may contain egg whites, further excluding it from a vegan diet.
Imitation crab is typically sold pre-cooked and can be eaten straight from the package. It's commonly used cold in salads, sushi rolls, and seafood cocktails. If heating, do so gently and briefly, as overcooking can make it rubbery; it's best added at the end of cooking to warm through.
imitation crab meat is a versatile ingredient found in cuisines around the world. With 95 calories per 100g and 7.6 grams of protein, it's a nutritious addition to many dishes.
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Imitation crab has a mild, slightly sweet, and subtly fishy flavor, designed to mimic the delicate taste of real crab. Its texture is typically flaky and somewhat chewy, though less fibrous than natural crab meat. It's often described as having a pleasant, inoffensive seafood flavor.
Unopened packages of imitation crab should be stored in the refrigerator according to the 'best by' date. Once opened, it should be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3-5 days to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
An unopened package of imitation crab can last for several weeks in the refrigerator, up to the printed 'best by' date. Once opened, it's best to consume it within 3 to 5 days. Freezing imitation crab is possible for longer storage, up to 2-3 months, though the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Generally, imitation crab does not contain real crab meat. It is primarily made from surimi, which is a paste of whitefish. While some premium brands might add a very small amount of real crab extract for flavor, it's not a significant component, and most varieties contain none.