Imitation crab meat

Seafood

Item Rating: 67/100

1 serving (135 grams) contains 128 calories, 10.3 grams of protein, 0.6 grams of fat, and 20.2 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (135g)

Calories		128.2
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		0.6 g	0%
	Saturated Fat	0.3 g	1%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0.2 g
Cholesterol		27 mg	9%
Sodium		714.1 mg	31%
Total Carbohydrates		20.2 g	7%
	Dietary Fiber	0.7 g	2%
	Sugars	8.4 g
protein		10.3 g	20%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		17.6 mg	1%
Iron		0.5 mg	2%
Potassium		121.5 mg	2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

USDA FoodData - Imitation crab meat Data

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Official nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.

View source →

Food Attributes

Source of Calories

Fat: 5 cal (4.2%)

Protein: 41 cal (32.3%)

Carbs: 80 cal (63.4%)

About Imitation crab meat

Imitation crab meat, also known as surimi, is a processed seafood product originating from Japan, where it has been used in various cuisines like sushi, seafood salads, and soups. It is made primarily from minced white fish, typically Alaskan pollock, mixed with starch, egg whites, and flavorings to mimic the texture and taste of real crab meat. Nutritionally, imitation crab is lower in calories and fat compared to real crab, with approximately 81 calories, 13 grams of protein, and 6 grams of carbs per 3-ounce serving. It contains minimal fat and provides small amounts of vitamins and minerals such as phosphorous, selenium, and vitamin B12, though it is often lower in these nutrients than authentic crab meat.

Health Benefits

• Low in calories, making it suitable for calorie-conscious diets with 81 calories per 3-ounce serving.
• Contains selenium, an antioxidant that supports immune function and thyroid health.
• Provides vitamin B12, essential for red blood cell production and proper nerve function.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains fish, egg, wheat (gluten)

Suitable for: Low-calorie diets, pescatarian diets

Not suitable for: Gluten-free diets, vegan diets, shellfish-free diets due to cross-contamination risks

Selection and Storage

Keep refrigerated at or below 40°F and consume within 3-5 days after opening. For extended storage, it can be frozen for up to 3 months, though the texture may slightly degrade upon thawing.

Common Questions About Imitation crab meat Nutrition

Is imitation crab meat high in protein?

Imitation crab meat contains moderate protein levels, with about 6-7 grams of protein per 3-ounce (85-gram) serving. While it provides some protein, it is lower in protein compared to real crab, which typically contains around 16-20 grams per similar serving size.

Can I eat imitation crab meat on a keto diet?

Imitation crab meat is not ideal for a keto diet because it is relatively high in carbohydrates, containing approximately 12-15 grams of carbs per 3-ounce (85-gram) serving. This is due to the added starches and sugars used in its production.

Are there any health concerns with eating imitation crab meat?

Imitation crab meat can be a concern for individuals sensitive to additives, as it often contains preservatives, artificial flavors, and sodium, with one serving typically providing 500-700 mg of sodium. Additionally, it has lower nutritional value compared to real crab due to the processing involved.

What is a recommended serving size for imitation crab meat?

A standard serving size of imitation crab meat is around 3 ounces (85 grams), which contains approximately 85-100 calories. It is often consumed as part of salads, sushi, or seafood dishes, and balancing it with fresh vegetables or whole grains can create a more nutrient-dense meal.

How does imitation crab meat compare to real crab in terms of nutrition?

Imitation crab meat is lower in protein and contains more carbohydrates than real crab. For example, real crab has 16-20 grams of protein and 0-1 gram of carbs per 3-ounce (85-gram) serving, while imitation crab contains 6-7 grams of protein and 12-15 grams of carbs. Additionally, real crab offers more natural nutrients, like vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids, compared to the processed nature of imitation crab.

Data Sources & Scientific References

1. USDA FoodData - Imitation crab meat Data

   U.S. Department of Agriculture

   Official nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.

   View source →