What is imitation crab? Here's what the popular 'fake crab' is really made of.

If you're a fan of a California roll, a menu staple at many sushi restaurants, chances are you've sampled imitation crab. The slightly pink roll filler is used as a substitute for real crab and can be a great budget option if your grocery bill starts to add up.

But what really is imitation crab? What is it made out of and how is it made?

Here's what you need to know about the popular seafood dupe, from health benefits to allergy warnings.

What is imitation crab?

Imitation crab meat is made of surimi. It is a substitute for real crab meat, and essentially formed through the processing of other fish into a paste.

The fish most often used is pollock. Surimi makes up about 35% to 50% of imitation crab. The rest is comprised of:

? Starch

? Water

? Vegetable oil

? Salt

? Egg whites or soy for protein

? Sugar

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What is surimi?

According to Healthline, this refers to a paste made from fish flesh that has had the bones removed, has been washed to remove fat and then minced into a paste.

The paste is then blended with other ingredients and cooked before it is reshaped to resemble actual crab meat.

What is kanikama?

Kanikama is the word used for surimi or imitation crab in Japan. 

Does imitation crab have real crab meat?

A very, very small amount.

Imitation crab usually has less than 2% real crab meat, along with a bit of extract from real crab added for flavoring.

Is eating imitation crab good for you?

Like any dietary question, the answer depends a bit on the individual.

Real crab meat is richer in some key nutrients, including Vitamin C and B12. It is also more protein-rich.

Real crab, however, is much higher in fat and sodium. So if you're on a low-sodium diet, imitation crab might be a better choice.

Notably, imitation crab also has a high number of additives. 

Does imitation crab have protein?

It does, but not as much as real crab meat.

In comparing 3 ounces of imitation crab and real Alaska king crab, Healthline reports that imitation crab has 6.5 grams of protein compared to real crab's 16.4 grams.

Can you eat imitation crab raw?

Yes. It is pre-cooked, so you are able to eat it straight from the package.

Many people use it as part of a larger recipe though, adding it to cream of crab soup, crab Rangoon or crab salad.

Do you have to wash imitation crab before eating?

No.

Imitation crab is precooked and therefore sold in ready-to-use form. Crab sticks are particularly popular and many recipes instruct you to just toss them in an air fryer and serve with some sauce.

Can I eat imitation crab if I'm allergic to shellfish?

It's probably best to avoid it.

Think of imitation crab like sausage. It is no one thing, instead, a lot of different ingredients are mixed up and labeled as one.

As a result, consumers don't always know exactly what is in their imitation crab. Imitation crab products can fail to list seafood ingredients accurately, increasing food safety and allergy risks, Healthline reports. 

Additionally, imitation crab does contain small amounts (usually 2% or less) of real crab meat as well as an extract for flavoring. If your allergy is severe, this could pose a risk.

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What is imitation crab made of? Your guide to health and allergies.