What is Surimi, the Main Ingredient?
The foundation of Walmart's imitation crab, like most imitation crab products, is a processed fish paste known as surimi. Originating in Japan centuries ago as a method of preserving fish, surimi has since evolved into a versatile food product. The surimi process starts with deboning and mincing mild-flavored, white-fleshed fish, most commonly Alaskan pollock. The fish flesh is then repeatedly washed to remove undesirable parts like fat, blood, and odors, leaving a concentrated protein paste. This washing process is crucial for achieving the product's signature white color and neutral base flavor.
The Recipe: Beyond the Fish Paste
To transform the raw surimi paste into the familiar taste, texture, and appearance of imitation crab, several other ingredients are added in significant proportions.
- Water: This is often the second most abundant ingredient, used to control the final product's texture and manage production costs.
- Starches: Ingredients like wheat, potato, corn, or tapioca starch are added to help the surimi form a firm gel and prevent it from breaking down during freezing and thawing. Starch also acts as a binder.
- Egg Whites: Used as a protein binder to improve the product's texture, color, and glossy finish. Soy protein may also be used in some products.
- Sugar and Sorbitol: These are added to provide a hint of sweetness and help the product withstand freezing and thawing processes.
- Vegetable Oil: Sunflower or soybean oil can be included to enhance texture, color, and extend shelf life.
- Salt: Salt not only adds flavor but also helps the fish paste form a sturdy gel structure.
- Flavorings: To achieve the distinct crab flavor, a blend of natural and artificial flavors is used. Some brands, like Trans-Ocean Crab Classic sold at some retailers, add a small amount of real crab or shellfish extract.
- Colorants: The characteristic red or orange stripes on imitation crab are created using food colorings like carmine (derived from insects), paprika, or beet juice extract.
- Other Additives: Preservatives, stabilizers, and flavor enhancers like MSG are also commonly included to ensure a consistent, safe product with a long shelf life.
The Manufacturing Process
The surimi paste is mixed with all the additional ingredients and then cooked. The mixture is then rolled into thin sheets, which are then cut or pressed into various shapes, such as sticks, flakes, or chunks. Edible dye is applied to the outside to create the orange or red coloring that mimics crab legs. Finally, the product is vacuum-sealed and pasteurized to kill bacteria, ensuring it is ready-to-eat straight from the package. This means imitation crab is always precooked.
Imitation Crab vs. Real Crab: A Comparative Look
| Feature | Walmart Imitation Crab (Surimi) | Real Crab Meat |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Ingredient | Minced white fish (e.g., Alaska pollock), starches, and other additives. | 100% natural meat from real crab species (e.g., King, Dungeness, Snow). |
| Cost | Significantly more affordable, often around one-third the price of real crab. | Can be very expensive, especially for certain species or when fresh. |
| Nutritional Profile | Higher in carbohydrates, lower in protein, and generally less nutritious. Contains high sodium and additives. | High in lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals like B12, selenium, and zinc. |
| Processing | Highly processed, with numerous additives to achieve desired texture, color, and flavor. | Minimally processed, often cooked and removed from the shell with minimal additions. |
| Convenience | Ready-to-eat right out of the package and highly versatile in many recipes. | Requires cooking and often involves time-consuming cracking of shells to extract the meat. |
| Allergies | May contain common allergens like fish, egg, soy, and wheat. Caution for those with shellfish allergies, as some flavors may come from shellfish extracts. | Allergenic for those with shellfish allergies. May contain traces of other allergens depending on processing. |
Conclusion
Walmart imitation crab is a budget-friendly and convenient alternative to real crab, made primarily from a fish paste called surimi. While it successfully mimics the texture and appearance of crab, it differs significantly in its nutritional content and level of processing. The final product is a blend of fish, starches, and flavorings designed for mass-market appeal and ease of use. For consumers, understanding these core differences allows for a more informed choice based on budget, convenience, and nutritional goals.
Where to find ingredients
While the exact brand sold may vary by location, most Walmart imitation crab will be a generic store brand or a nationally available brand like Trans-Ocean or Aquamar. To see the ingredients for a specific product, check the label in-store or online via Walmart's product details page. For example, some Trans-Ocean products are made with Wild Alaska pollock. However, consumers should be aware that product labels can sometimes be misrepresentative of the true fish species used.
Important Considerations
- Allergy Risks: Despite its name, imitation crab is not suitable for individuals with shellfish allergies, as it often contains shellfish extracts for flavoring or may be produced in facilities that handle real shellfish. Always read the label carefully.
- Gluten Content: Many imitation crab products contain wheat starch as a binder, making them unsuitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. There are gluten-free options available, but always verify the packaging.
- Additives and Health: The high level of processing and use of additives like MSG, preservatives, and colorants raise health concerns for some consumers. Natural, minimally processed alternatives offer a healthier option.
Here is a useful guide on imitation crab ingredients for further reading.
