Crab sticks are imitation seafood made from fish

Crab sticks, commonly known as kanikama in Japan or crab sticks in English, are imitation seafood products made entirely from fish rather than actual crab. The primary ingredient is surimi, which is finely minced white fish meat. A common source for this surimi is Alaska pollock.

The production process involves mixing the surimi with starch, egg whites, salt, sugar, and various flavorings and texturizers. The mixture is heat-treated to create a chewy texture with fibers that mimic crab meat, and the exterior is dyed red-orange to resemble cooked crab legs.

The product originated in Japan, with the company Sugiyo noted as a pioneer in its development. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies these items as processed seafood products made from fish protein designed to imitate or replace crab and other seafood. Consequently, the FDA requires such products to clearly indicate their “imitation” nature on the label.