Surimi Fish Protein

Surimi is a processed seafood product made from white fish, such as pollock. The fish is deboned, minced, and then washed to remove fat and undesirable flavors. The resulting protein paste is often mixed with sugar, salt, and other ingredients to help preserve it and give it a specific texture.

Surimi is used to imitate the texture and flavor of more expensive shellfish like crab, lobster, or shrimp. It is often found in imitation crab sticks, seafood salads, and as a binder or texturizer in other processed foods. Manufacturers add it to provide a desirable chewy texture and a mild seafood flavor.

In the U.S., surimi is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. It is a source of protein and other nutrients found in fish. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated similar fish protein products. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects from typical consumption of surimi.