Is Fake Crab Real Food?
Friday April 11, 2008
Debate over the culinary merits of imitation crab has raged since it appeared in grocery stores decades ago. This pureed, processed, and pressed Alaskan pollock is used in everything from California sushi rolls, to the ubiquitous "seafood" salad. But is it "real" food?
Advocates of this popular crab substitute point to its affordability, pleasant taste, and low-fat content. The anti-fake crab folks claim it's just another example of overly processed convenience food that's high in sodium. They say use the real stuff, or eat something else.
I thought this debate would make for an interesting reader poll, so please let me know which side you take in this debate. For those of you that do enjoy this product, I just posted a very simple faux crab and avocado salad sandwich recipe I think you'll enjoy.
Photo © John Mitzewich
Comments
I’m torn on this one. While I don’t really see imitation crab as “fake food” I certainly don’t consider it crab! I would never put down someone for eating imitation crab–I eat hot dogs after all. haha
i have similar feelings. You’ll notice I didn’t really take a stand in the post.
i’m from baltimore md if it ain’t from a blue crab it ain’t crab
and if you get a crab cake anywhere else it isn’t a crab cake and we steam our crabs not boil them so they are not water logged
myrl hartman
What does it matter if you like or don’t? I figure people have an opinion either way. I eat it on the odd occasion and find nothing wrong with it.