Imitation crab meat, sometimes called surimi, is a popular alternative to real crab meat made from pollock or other whitefish. With its mild seafood flavor, fluffy texture, and versatility, imitation crab is an affordable and convenient way to enjoy crab-like flavor in everything from sushi rolls to crab cakes. But where can you buy it? Here’s a guide to finding delicious imitation crab meat at stores near you or delivered right to your door.
Grocery Stores and Supermarkets
Your regular supermarket likely carries imitation crab meat from major brands like Louis Kemp Crab Delights and Trans-Ocean. Check the refrigerated seafood case near the fresh fish. Imitation crab often comes in plastic tubs or bags in the deli section or freezer aisle. Look for it labeled as “imitation crab”, “imitation flake crab”, “imitation leg crab”, or simply “crab-flavored seafood”.
Popular national chains that stock various imitation crab products include
- Kroger
- Safeway
- Albertsons
- Publix
- H-E-B
- Hy-Vee
- Meijer
- Food Lion
You’ll find different forms like chunks, shreds, flakes, and sticks. Grab an 8 oz or 1 lb package for crab cakes and other recipes Opt for bigger 24-40 oz bags, tubs, or trays for crab dip, platters, and more portions Prices range from $3-8 per pound. Store brands offer savings.
Pro Tip: Check the seafood counter too. They may have fresh imitiation crab meat unpacked from a master case.
Asian Grocery Stores
For extra variety, visit an Asian food mart. You’ll discover Japanese brands like Kanikama alongside Chinese and Korean options. Popular picks include:
- Masan
- Great Wall
- Ocean Star
- Lucky Bay
- Shiitake
Browse the refrigerator and freezer sections for vacuum-sealed packages, trays, and bulk bags. Prices start around $4-6 per pound. Depending on the brand, ingredients may include real crab extract for enhanced flavor.
Online Stores and Delivery Services
If you can’t find your favorite brand locally, order imitation crab meat online for delivery right to your home.
Amazon
On Amazon, you can select 1-day shipping on a huge selection of top brands like Trans-Ocean and Louis Kemp Crab Delights. A 3-pack of 8 oz tubs starts around $13. Opt for Subscribe & Save for discounts up to 15% off.
Walmart
The Walmart website carries imitation crab meat you can pick up at your local store or get shipped. Choose free 2-day shipping on orders over $35. An 8 oz tub of Trans-Ocean Imitation Crab Leg Style rings up at $3.44.
Instacart
Use Instacart to get imitation crab meat delivered from stores like Kroger, Publix, Aldi, and more in as fast as 1 hour. Shop by brand, form (legs, flakes, or chunks), and package size. Expect to pay $3-5 for an 8 oz pack. Delivery fees start at $3.99 for orders over $35.
Thrive Market
This online grocer sells healthy, organic, and specialty foods at 25-50% below retail. Get imitation crab at lower member prices. A 16 oz pack of Wild Alaska Pollock Surimi Flakes is $5.69. Membership starts at $5/month.
eBay
eBay offers deals on bulk cases of imitation crab meat perfect for restaurants, parties, and events. A 10 lb case of Oto Surimi Imitation Crab Chunks sells for around $65 with free shipping.
Warehouse Clubs
For big savings, shop at warehouse clubs like Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s Wholesale Club. They sell imitation crab in extra large packages at member-only low costs.
A 2 lb tray or 4 lb bag of flake or chunk-style imitation crab can cost just $7-10. Brands carried include Kirkland and Member’s Mark. Watch for mail order specials too.
So look for imitation crab meat on your next trip to the supermarket, Asian market, or warehouse store. Or order online for convenient delivery. With so many options for where to buy, you can enjoy the sweet crab flavor in all your seafood recipes.
Imitation Crab Near MeBuy your favorite Imitation Crab online with Instacart. Order Imitation Crab from local and national retailers near you and enjoy on-demand, contactless delivery or pickup within 2 hours.
- Turning on notifications for the Instacart app
- Keeping an eye out for text messages and phone calls from your Instacart shopper
- Leaving helpful instructions for parking, gate codes, or other clues to find your home.
- Delivery fees start at $3.99 for same-day orders over $35. Fees vary for one-hour deliveries, club store deliveries, and deliveries under $35.
- Service fees vary and are subject to change based on factors like location and the number and types of items in your cart. Orders containing alcohol have a separate service fee.
- Tipping is optional but encouraged for delivery orders. It’s a great way to show your shopper appreciation and recognition for excellent service. 100% of your tip goes directly to the shopper who delivers your order.
With an optional Instacart+ membership, you can get $0 delivery fee* on every order over $35. *Service fees apply. Instacart pickup cost:
- There may be a “pickup fee” (equivalent to a delivery fee for pickup orders) on your pick up order that is typically $1.99 for non-Instacart+ members. Instacart+ membership waives this like it would a delivery fee.
- Pick up orders have no service fees, regardless of non-Instacart+ or Instacart+ membership.
- Find Best Match: By default, your shopper will use their best judgement to pick a replacement for your item.
- Pick Specific Replacement: You can pick a specific alternative for the shopper to purchase if your first choice is out-of-stock.
- Dont Replace: For items you’d rather not replace, choose “Dont replace” to get a refund if the item is out of stock.
- Missing items
- Incorrect items
- Damaged items
- Poor replacements
- Early/late orders
If an order never came, or you get someone else’s order, you can reach out to Instacart Customer Experience. Yes! You can get Imitation Crab products delivered same-day in as fast as one hour from stores near you using the Instacart app or website.
Sam’s Club’s imitation crab meat
FAQ
Where can I find imitation crab meat in the grocery store?
More often than not, you’ll find imitation crab at grocery stores that sell “fresh fish.” You should see it either in the frozen section or in the refrigerated aisle. Look for packaging that says “imitation crab,” “crab-flavored seafood,” or “surimi seafood.”
Is imitation crab meat healthy?
Imitation crab is mostly made of Alaska pollock and it’s good for you because it is affordable, convenient, and nutritious.
What’s another name for imitation crab meat?
In Japan, imitation crab meat is referred to as kanikama. In the U.S., it is often referred to simply as kani. Imitation crab is a key ingredient in California sushi rolls, along with avocado and cucumber, and is used as a crab substitute in Japanese cuisine.Jan 30, 2024
Can I buy imitation crab at Walmart?
Imitation Crab(9)
Aquamar, Surimi, Leg Style Fresh Imitation Crab , 1- 8 oz. Medium Plastic Bag. 5gr of Protein per serving. Aquamar Surimi, Flake Style Fresh Imitation Crab, 1- 8 oz Medium Plastic Bag.