Imitation crab meat is made from surimi, a processed fish product, which is colored and flavored to resemble crab meat. As with real crab meat, imitation crab meat is a good source of protein, though considerably lower in cholesterol.
Calories
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a 3-oz. serving of imitation crab meat contains 78 calories. Around 50 calories come from carbohydrates, while proteins provide 25 calories and fats deliver just 3 calories per serving.
Components
The same serving of imitation crab meat weighs about 85 g. Of that amount, 12 g are carbohydrates, another 6.5 g are proteins and 0.3 g are fats. The portion consists of other nutrients and water.
Nutrients
Imitation crab meat also contains several essential vitamins including thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12. Dietary minerals, including selenium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, potassium and zinc are also available within the serving.
Considerations
According to the American Heart Association, excessive amounts of dietary cholesterol can contribute to heart disease. Unlike real crab meat, which is high in cholesterol at around 84 mg per 3-oz. serving or 28 percent of the daily recommended intake, imitation crab meat contains only 17 mg or 5 percent.
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