how crab sticks are made

How Crab Sticks Are Made

Crab sticks, also known as imitation crab meat or surimi, are made from a white fish—typically Alaskan pollock—that is processed into a paste and flavored to resemble crab meat. Here's a simplified process:

1. Fish Filleting: White fish are deboned and filleted.

2. Surimi Production: The fillets are washed, minced, and blended into a smooth paste called surimi.

3. Flavoring & Coloring: Crab flavoring (usually artificial or from shellfish extract) and red/orange food coloring are added to mimic crab meat.

4. Shaping & Cooking: The flavored paste is extruded into stick shapes, steamed or cooked, and then cooled.

5. Packaging: The crab sticks are vacuum-packed for freshness.