Can Someone with Shellfish Allergies Eat Imitation Crab?

Imitation crab, sometimes called crab sticks, krab, or seafood extender, is a common ingredient found in many seafood dishes and sushi rolls However, for people with shellfish allergies, imitation crab can be a confusing ingredient Is it really crab? Is it safe for people with shellfish allergies to eat? Here’s what you need to know about imitation crab and shellfish allergies.

What is Imitation Crab Made Of?

Imitation crab is made from surimi, a paste made from minced fish, usually Alaskan pollock. Surimi originated in Japan almost 1000 years ago as a way to preserve fish. Modern commercial surimi also contains additives like sugar, salt, egg whites, and starch to enhance the flavor and texture to resemble real crab meat.

While surimi and imitation crab contain little to no real crab shellfish like shrimp scallops, lobster, or crab are often added in small amounts, usually less than 2%, to better imitate the texture and taste. So while imitation crab is mostly mild white fish, it frequently contains traces of shellfish.

Can You Eat Imitation Crab with a Shellfish Allergy?

For most people with shellfish allergies, even small amounts can trigger an allergic reaction. According to the FDA, imitation crab must list shellfish as an ingredient if present, but there is no legal definition requiring shellfish to be labeled “imitation.”

So just seeing “imitation crab” on a label does not guarantee it is shellfish free. With the variability between brands and frequent cross-contamination risks, it is generally not considered safe for those with shellfish allergies to consume imitation crab.

What Seafood Dishes Contain Imitation Crab?

Imitation crab is extremely common in seafood dishes, especially sushi. Here are some dishes that frequently contain imitation crab:

• California rolls – One of the most popular rolls in the US, these nearly always contain imitation crab.

• Crab sticks/crab legs – These often contain a high amount of imitation crab.

• Crab cakes/patties – Many commercial varieties add imitation crab to keep costs down. Check ingredients.

• Seafood salads – Imitation crab is often mixed into seafood salads.

• Fish cakes – These frequently contain imitation crab as a binder.

• Surimi salads – By definition these contain imitation crab.

• Sushi containing “krab” – If you see krab or crab spelled with a K on a sushi menu, it is imitation.

What to Order with a Shellfish Allergy

It’s best for those with shellfish allergies to avoid any seafood dishes containing the word “crab” or “krab” just to be safe. Here are some safer sushi rolls and dishes:

-Vegetable rolls like cucumber, avocado, or asparagus

-Rolls with cooked fish like salmon, tuna, tilapia or shrimp tempura (if no shrimp allergy)

-Poke bowls with non-shellfish proteins

-Miso soup, seaweed salad, edamame

-Nigiri sushi containing whole fish fillets like salmon but no shellfish

Cooking Substitutes for Imitation Crab

If a recipe calls for imitation crab, there are several substitutes you can use:

• Firm tofu – Drain and press to remove moisture. Flavor as desired.

• Heart of palm – Sliced thin to mimic crab texture.

• Jackfruit – Shredded young jackfruit makes a good flavor sponge.

• Zucchini – Shredded zucchini gives a nice crunch.

• Scalloped potatoes – For casseroles and crab cakes.

• Extra firm bean curd sheets – Sold as yuba. Can be sliced and shredded.

Is Surimi Safe for Shellfish Allergies?

Pure surimi that contains no additives with shellfish should be safe for those with shellfish allergies. However, always check the ingredients list carefully and look for advisory labels. Some brands process shellfish and fish surimi on shared equipment, increasing cross-contact risks.

Surimi seafood is lower risk than imitation crab, but when in doubt, avoid it or check with your doctor.

Key Takeaways

• Imitation crab contains traces of shellfish in many cases, making it unsafe for people with shellfish allergies.

• Dishes like California rolls, crab cakes, seafood salad frequently contain imitation crab.

• Check labels carefully or avoid foods with the terms “krab,” “crab,” “imitation” to be safe.

• Substitutes like tofu, jackfruit or heart of palm can be used replace imitation crab in recipes.

For people with severe shellfish allergies, it’s safest to avoid imitation crab and surimi altogether when dining out or buying pre-made products. When preparing seafood at home, substitute alternate ingredients to enjoy your favorite dishes crab-free. With some simple swaps, you can still enjoy the flavors of seafood cuisine safely.