If you’ve ever seen viral videos showing how crab sticks are made, you may have wondered whether they’re as unhealthy as social media claims. Headlines often describe the manufacturing process as “disgusting” or “shocking,” leaving many people questioning whether they should ever eat imitation crab again.
The reality is much less dramatic.
Crab sticks—also known as imitation crab or surimi—are highly processed, but they aren’t made from mystery ingredients. Understanding what they contain and how they’re produced can help separate facts from internet myths.
What Are Crab Sticks?
Despite their name, most crab sticks contain very little or no real crab meat.
Instead, they’re primarily made from surimi, a paste created from white fish such as:
- Alaska pollock
- Pacific whiting
- Hake
- Other mild white fish
These fish are commonly used because they have a neutral flavor, firm texture, and are widely available.
How Are Crab Sticks Made?
The manufacturing process may look unusual, but it’s very similar to the way many other processed foods are made.
Step 1: The Fish Is Filleted
Fresh white fish are cleaned, deboned, and filleted.
Only the lean meat is used.
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