Imitation Crabmeat

Why Does This Score Ultra-Processed?

In our analysis, Imitation Crabmeat scores Ultra-Processed. That classification is shaped by ingredients commonly associated with ultra-processed foods:

• Modified Starches (Modified Food Starch): Chemical modification is a hallmark of UPF.
• Other Additives (Sodium Tripolyphosphate, Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate): Miscellaneous additives generally indicate processing.
• Sugar Alcohols (Sorbitol): Modified sweeteners common in diet UPF products.
• Plant Proteins (Hydrolyzed Soy Protein): Isolated proteins require extensive industrial processing.
• Flavor Enhancers (Disodium Inosinate, Disodium Guanylate): Industrial flavor enhancement common in UPF.

Within Seafood, this product is more processed than about 90% of the 7,747 products we've analyzed.

Processing classification reflects ingredient and additive analysis, not a judgment of any product's safety, quality, or healthfulness.

What These Ingredients Tell Us

We group Imitation Crabmeat's ingredients into ingredient categories and note how each relates to food processing. The notes below describe the category, not this specific product's formulation.

EmulsifiersUPF marker

In this product: Soy Lecithin.

Industrial emulsifiers indicate UPF.

Sugars & Natural SweetenersProcessing indicator

In this product: Sugar, Mirin Wine (Sake, Sugar, Salt, Water, Yeast Extract), Maltodextrin.

Natural sugars acceptable in moderation, excessive amounts indicate UPF.

Salt & SodiumProcessing indicator

In this product: Salt.

Basic preservative, but high amounts indicate processing.

Vegetable OilsProcessing indicator

In this product: Soybean Oil.

Natural oils are minimally processed, hydrogenated oils indicate UPF.