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.

Imitation crab is made from surimi, which is deboned fish minced into a paste with other ingredients. It’s an affordable alternative, but highly processed and low in certain nutrients. Chances ...

When making surimi, these nutrients are lost during washing and processing when the fish meat is exposed to heat. Real crab also has a higher amount of omega-3 fatty acids than its mock substitute.

No, it's not real crab meat inside your California roll—so what is imitation crab? Here's what this sushi staple is really made of. Imitation crab is pretty up front about the fact that it’s ...

The challenge is making it taste more like real crab. That's where the butter comes in, preventing surimi from drying out while infusing it with flavors associated with lump crab meat.

Bad surimi will have an unpleasant, fishy odor and feel slimy to the touch. It will also taste sour, although, hopefully, you don't get to the point of actually consuming it. Read the original ...

Imitation crab is a highly-processed food, meaning it's not very healthy. Surimi should be eaten in moderation, according to a dietitian nutritionist.