How Surimi Seafood (Imitation Crab) is Made
At Trans-Ocean Products, we are proud to produce Crab Classic, America’s best-selling and most popular brand of surimi seafood, or imitation crab. People like Crab Classic because it has an appealing, mild flavor that tastes great in so many different recipes.
Even though surimi seafood is one of the most frequently purchased types of seafood many people don’t know where it comes from or how it is made. The very best surimi seafood is made with Wild Alaska Pollock as the main ingredient. Crab Classic is made exclusively with Wild Alaska Pollock.
The Process of Making Imitation Crab
Here’s what makes Crab Classic real seafood:
- The Alaska Pollock are harvested in the cold, northern waters of the Bering Sea and the Gulf of Alaska. The pollock is cleaned and minced and then formed into “blocks” of surimi, and frozen. This ensures the fish stays fresh-tasting and retains its natural qualities. Wild Alaska Pollock is mild, flaky, and abundant, making it the ideal base for high-quality surimi seafood.
- The frozen surimi blocks are shipped to Trans-Ocean’s facility in Bellingham WA. The surimi blocks are thawed and combined with other ingredients and flavorings. At this point the mixture looks like a fish “paste’ which is then cooked at high temperature and tightly rolled to form a surimi seafood “rope.”
- This rope is then cut into pieces that resemble different kinds of crab meat, such as legs, flakes and chunks. By shaping the surimi into familiar forms, Crab Classic delivers the same look and feel as real crab meat, making it perfect for countless recipes.
- After packaging the surimi seafood is vacuum-sealed in pouches and pasteurized to achieve the highest level of food safety. This assures every package of Crab Classic is safe, fresh, and ready to eat.
The illustration below is a simplified example of the steps we take to produce surimi seafood.
Why Choose Imitation Crab?
Crab Classic stands out because it’s made exclusively from Wild Alaska Pollock, one of the most sustainable fish species in the world. Certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), this fishery protects ocean ecosystems while providing a reliable source of healthy, high-quality seafood.
Nutritionally, Crab Classic is a smart choice:
- Low in calories and fat
- A good source of lean protein
- Gluten-free and heart-healthy
This makes it an excellent option for families looking for a seafood product that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Delicious Ways to Enjoy Surimi Seafood
Imitation crab is one of the most versatile ingredients you can keep in your kitchen and use in a wide variety of recipes. With Crab Classic, you can enjoy:
- Seafood salads – light, refreshing, and packed with protein.
- Sushi rolls – the perfect filling for California rolls.
- Hot dishes – creamy crab dips, crab cakes, and seafood pasta.
- Everyday meals – tacos, wraps, and enchiladas made simple with fully cooked, ready-to-eat surimi seafood.
Because it’s pre-cooked and vacuum-sealed, Crab Classic is ready to use straight from the package, saving you time without sacrificing flavor.
Try Crab Classic Surimi Seafood Today
Whether you’re preparing sushi at home, adding protein to a salad, or creating a family-favorite casserole, Crab Classic makes it easy to bring delicious seafood flavor to your table. Find where you can buy Crab Classic today!
Have questions about our products, ingredients, or how surimi seafood is made? Contact Trans-Ocean Products to learn more about Crab Classic and why it’s America’s favorite surimi seafood.
Pictured below are the finished “styles” of Crab Classic surimi seafood.
