
Though omega-3-rich oil could be added to imitation crab, this isn’t prevalent ( 10, 11). Lastly, real crab is generally higher in omega-3 fatty acids than imitation crab. Salt is often added to both real and imitation crab, though the amount varies by brand ( 9). On the other hand, real crab tends to be higher in sodium than imitation crab, though both make a big contribution toward the daily limit of 2,300 mg. This is partly because some nutrients are rinsed away during surimi processing ( 5, 8). If you’re trying to increase your protein intake and reduce your carb intake - for instance, if you’re on a low-carb or ketogenic diet - real crab would better fit your goals.Ĭompared to imitation crab, real crab is also significantly higher in several vitamins and minerals - including vitamin B12, zinc and selenium. Though both have a similar number of calories, 61% of imitation crab calories come from carbs, whereas 85% of Alaska king crab calories come from protein - with none from carbs ( 6, 7). Imitation crab is made from surimi, which is minced fish flesh - often pollock - that has been deboned and washed, then combined with other ingredients, heated and formed into crab-like cuts. On restaurant menus, imitation crab may be spelled “krab” to indicate that it’s fake. In Japan, surimi-based seafood is often called kamaboko ( 5). Packages of crab-like products may be labeled “imitation crab,” “crab-flavored seafood” or “surimi seafood” but must follow government labeling rules. This fish is also used to make fish sticks and other breaded fish products ( 1). Pollock, which has a mild color and odor, is commonly used to make surimi. While imitation crab is made from seafood, it generally contains no crab - other than a tiny amount of crab extract that is sometimes added for flavoring. This paste is blended with other ingredients before being heated and pressed into shapes that mimic crab meat ( 1, 2, 3, 4).

Imitation crab is made from surimi - fish flesh that has been deboned, washed to remove fat and unwanted bits, then minced into a paste.
