Artificial crab meat is sometimes used in sushi, particularly in California rolls.
Artificial crab meat, or imitation crab meat, is a food product that is made out of a processed fish called surimi. Surimi is made from the flesh of white fishes like the Alaskan pollock. It is about 76 percent water and 15 percent fish protein.
History
Surimi-based products have been produced in Japan for over 800 years, and the Japanese are still the largest consumers of surimi in the world. Surimi was introduced to the United States in the 1980s, where it quickly gained popularity.
Identification
Surimi is made by mincing fish and then pulverizing it into a gelatinous paste. This paste is mixed with additives like mirin, monosodium glutamate (MSG), soy proteins and artificial color. It is then formed into imitation crab meat.
Warning
Because artificial crab meat is highly processed, it should not be consumed frequently, or in high quantities. MSG -- one of the potentially harmful ingredients in many artificial crab meats -- can cause headaches and asthma attacks. All-natural versions of artificial crab meat can offer a healthier alternative.
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