Unfortunately, that kind of fresh-from-the-ocean haul can be cost-prohibitive.

It’s made with a mixture that contains seafood but not crab meat.

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What Is Imitation Crab?

Ceramic plate with crab sticks on rustic wooden table

Credit:Getty Images

Why Was Imitation Crab Created?

Even processed crabpackaged and sold in refrigerated containers or canscan wield a heavy price tag.

How Do Imitation Crab And Real Crab Differ Nutritionally?

Nutritionally, these are two very different products.

Real crab meat has almost three times the protein of imitation crab.

Imitation crab meat has a litany of ingredients.

It also makes a good addition to apasta salad,cracker topping, orsandwich recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Imitation crab has fewer nutrients than real crab and is highly processed.

Those with food allergies should check the label before eating imitation crab.

It often contains wheat, seafood, eggs, and soy.

Imitation crab is fully cooked and can be eaten straight from the package.

It is often found in sushi, crab rangoon, and salads.

USDA FoodData Central.Crustaceans, crab, alaska king, imitation, made from surimi.

USDA FoodData Central.Crustaceans, crab, alaska king, cooked, moist heat.

USDA FoodData Central.Imitation Crab Meat.