Real crab meat is richer in some key nutrients, including Vitamin C and B12. It is also more protein-rich. Real crab, however, is much higher in fat and sodium.

While imitation crab is more affordable than real crab, it doesn't have as much nutritional value. Consider buying only krab made of wild-caught Alaska pollock, which is a responsible seafood choice.

Additionally, imitation crab does contain small amounts (usually 2% or less) of real crab meat as well as an extract for flavoring. If your allergy is severe, this could pose a risk.

The red and white "crab stick" -- often referred to as imitation crab-- does indeed come from the sea. In Japanese, crab stick is called "surimi," which actually means "ground meat." It's kind of ...

A common ingredient in East Asia, surimi can be processed with additives and molded into various shapes to mimic more expensive seafood like lobster, eel, and crab. In addition to fish, imitation ...