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Is Crab Meat A Keto-Friendly Food?

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Crab is a lot more than just delicious meat, it’s incredibly healthy, boasting high levels of protein and omega-3. As a minimally processed food, it even comes free from harmful chemicals and is virtually carb-free. What’s not to love about low-carb keto crab?

Crab Meat close up view shot

IS CRAB MEAT A KETO-FRIENDLY FOOD?

Crabs are shellfish are keto-friendly and similar to other kinds of seafood, they are a protein-rich food suitable for those on a keto diet and therefore crab is a good choice for the keto diet.

Regardless if you are a shellfish or seafood lover that can’t get enough of foods from the sea, or you’re looking to cut down on your red meat intake, this article is for you. Crabs are some of the best kinds of seafood that you can eat on a ketogenic diet due to their extensive list of health benefits.

MOST COMMON KINDS OF CRABS

There is an abundance of crabs that can be found across oceans, freshwater bays, and streams. In fact, there are over 4,400 different crab species! However, not all of them are edible. We have listed some of the most common and tasty types of Crabs. All these carbs are suitable to consume or a low-carb keto diet.

  • Alaskan crab:  Also known as the red king crab, this is the most common type of edible crab and the biggest of its kind. Despite their size – they can weigh up to 27.9 lb (12.7kg) – you will find most of the meat in the claws, legs, and tail.
Crab Meat close up view shot
  • Blue crab: This crab is known for its sapphire-colored shell and resides in Europe, Japan, the Gulf of Mexico, and the East Coast of the US. It has an impressive size and can grow to a staggering 9 inches (23 cm). Serve it grilled or sauteed.
Crab Meat front shot
  • Stone crab: This expensive crab is considered a delicacy and is famous for its tough claws. You can find it in places like the Gulf of Mexico, the Bahamas, and Cuba, as well as the western North Atlantic of the United States. Also known as the Florida Stone Crab, it’s a must-try when visiting the state.
  • Dungeness Crab: A crab with a rich taste, the Dungeness crab is a kind that’s popular due to its unique flavor. A single crab can weigh up to four lbs (1.8 kg), offering an abundance of meat, however, they’re not cheap.
  • Peekytoe Crab: Is a medium-sized and delicate crab with a juicy and sweet flavor. It can grow up to 5.5 lbs (13 cm) and is perfect for those delicious sushi rolls, dips, or you could even try even one of our own Yummy Keto Cooking recipes.

If you need an easy low carb lunch idea, try these keto crab salad stuffed avocados. This crab salad is easy to throw together quickly and can be stored in the fridge for a few days to use for lunch. Just slice up your avocado, toss your crab meat in, and you’ve got a simple and filling lunch.

Crab Meat top shot

HOW MANY CARBS ARE IN CRAB MEAT?

Being on a standard keto diet consists of having a 70% fat, 20% protein, and 10% carbs meal plan. And as with any other diet, the beginning can be challenging. The key is to learn how to tailor your keto diet plan< to fit your needs. Discover more about keto diet and a plan in our blog about the keto diet plan.

It’s recommended that you consume seafood or shellfish twice a week, so why not start with crabs? According to the US Department of Agriculture, a cooked red king crab has zero carbs, 19.4 g protein, and 1.54 g fat! Release your inner master chef and cook up a storm in the kitchen by steaming the crabs in a pot for five to ten minutes after leaving it to thaw for 10-12 hours in the fridge.

IS IMITATION CRAB MEAT KETO?

Imitation crab, is different, it is processed fish meat made from starch and wrapped in surimi – a minced fish paste. Also known as crab sticks, they are a very cost-friendly option but highly processed, which means, it is a no-go on a keto diet.

HOW MANY CARBS ARE IN IMITATION CRAB MEAT?

Since imitation crab is processed food, it may not come as a surprise that it is high in carbs. The crab sticks contain a whopping 47.06 g carbs, 20.59 g protein, and 7.35 g fat. In other words, consuming it often may kick you out of ketosis.