Can I eat imitation crab while pregnant? It’s a question I get a lot, so I decided to write this blog post to answer it once and for all. Whether you’re considering eating imitation crab while pregnant or not, reading this article is a good idea!
Not all sushi is fish. This tasty raw dish comes in many forms and ingredients, with imitation crab being a common alternative for seafood-averse diners. As with real crab, imitation crab is packed with protein and other nutrients. It also has zero carbs and almost no fat, making it an ideal snack for pregnant women or anyone watching their weight. In general, most imitations of raw fish are safe to eat while pregnant, but as with any food you should check the label to be sure. Read on to learn more about eating imitation crab while pregnant and which types are best for your growing baby.
What is Imitation Crab?
A lot of people think imitation crab is just a weaker version of real crab. But it’s actually a completely different seafood species altogether – a type of “surimi” made from white fish such as cod, pollock, or hake. For the record, surimi is not a type of sushi. In fact, it’s not even eaten raw. While real crab is often found in rolls and other sushi dishes, imitation crab is more commonly used to make crab burgers and crab cakes. Imitation crab is a plant-based product made of surimi. It is derived from fish and is often used as a substitute for crab meat, but has a different texture and taste. It’s commonly used in crab dips and even used to make imitation crab cakes. Surimi is commonly used in things like imitation crab, imitation crab cakes, sushi, and fish casseroles. It’s typically made from fish fillets that are ground together with additives like cornstarch, salt, and pepper, and then formed into a crab-like consistency. It’s high in protein and low in calories, making it an ideal meal for people who are watching their weight.
How is Imitation Crab Made?
The most common form of imitation crab is made with surimi, a paste of white fish, soy sauce, and a variety of other ingredients. (Real crab is never made with soy sauce, as this would make it inedible.) First, a fish fillet is ground in a blender to turn it into a paste. Then chemicals and flavorings are added to give the paste a crab-like flavor. Other ingredients like starch are added for binding, and then it is shaped into a crab-like consistency. The imitation crab is usually then formed into blocks, bags, or sticks for sale.
Is Imitation Crab Safe to Eat While Pregnant?
While real crab has been found to contain parasites that can be harmful to pregnant women, imitation crab has never reported such an issue. In fact, imitation crab is often recommended for pregnant women because it is high in B vitamins, protein, and calcium. Additionally, imitation crab is gluten-free and low in calories, so it’s a good choice for pregnant women who want to keep an eye on their weight. While imitation crab is a safe choice, you should check the label to be sure. Some imitation crab may contain gluten, so be sure to check the label and avoid any variety that lists wheat as an ingredient.
Which Brands of Imitation Crab Are Safe for Pregnancy?
Some of the best imitation crab brands for pregnant women are Trader Joe’s, McCormick, and Rold Gold. Trader Joe’s crab is made from surimi and has no additives, preservatives, or gluten, making it a great choice for pregnant women looking for an affordable imitation crab that’s high in protein. McCormick’s Classic Crab is also made from surimi, but it does contain gluten, so avoid this brand if you have a gluten intolerance. Rold Gold’s crab snack is made from surimi and has no additives, preservatives, or gluten, making it another great choice for pregnant women. While imitation crab is usually a safe choice for pregnant women, it’s always best to check the label to be sure. Some imitation crab may contain gluten, so be sure to check the label and avoid any variety that lists wheat as an ingredient.
Nutrition Facts for Imitation Crab
– Calories: 150 – Fat: 4 grams – Saturated Fat: 1 gram – Carbohydrates: 4 grams – Sodium: 70 milligrams – Fiber: 1 gram – Protein: 16 grams – Vitamin B12: 10% – Vitamin B3 (Niacin): 10% – Vitamin B6: 10% – Iron: 10% – Calcium: 10% – Magnesium: 10% – Potassium: 10% As you can see, imitation crab is high in protein and B vitamins, making it a nutritious and protein-rich snack for pregnant women. It’s also low in calories, making it a good choice for pregnant women who are watching their weight. One serving of imitation crab has just 150 calories and 4 grams of fat, making it a much better alternative to many other high-calorie, high-fat snacks.
Should You Eat Imitation Crab During Pregnancy?
As we’ve discussed, imitations of real crab do not carry any risk of parasites, so they are a safe alternative for pregnant women who may want to avoid eating real crab. That said, imitation crab is high in sodium, which is something to keep in mind if you’re monitoring your sodium intake during pregnancy. If you are craving imitation crab, it is safe to eat while pregnant, but keep in mind you’ll be getting a good amount of sodium. For example, one serving of 2 ounces of imitation crab has almost 70 milligrams of sodium, which is almost half of the daily recommended amount of sodium for pregnant women. Keep in mind that you’ll also get a decent amount of protein and B vitamins from imitation crab, which are nutrients that are important for pregnant women.
Bottom line
Real crab has a high risk of parasites and other harmful bacteria, but imitation crab is safe for pregnant women. Imitation crab is made from surimi, a paste of white fish, soy sauce, and other ingredients. It is high in B vitamins, protein, and calcium and low in calories, making it a nutritious and protein-rich snack for pregnant women. It’s best to check the label to be sure, as some imitation crab may contain gluten. It is high in sodium, so be sure to keep that in mind if you are monitoring your sodium intake while pregnant.