Crabs β Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 6, 2024
Nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
π₯ 83 kcal
| Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 0 g | - |
| Fiber | 0 g | - |
| Sugars | 0 g | - |
| Glycemic Index | 0 | - |
| Protein | 18 g | 36% |
| Sodium | 911 mg | 39.61% |
| Total Fat | 1 | 1.28% |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
18 g
🧀 Good Protein Content
Key takeaways
Health benefits
- High in protein, essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, reduce inflammation, and improve brain function.
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin B12, zinc, selenium, and copper, which support energy metabolism, immune function, and overall health.
- Low in fat and calories, making them a nutritious and healthy seafood option.
- May support eye health due to the presence of nutrients like Vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids.
Health risks
- Risk of contamination with harmful bacteria or toxins, particularly if the crabs are not properly stored, handled, or cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- High cholesterol content which can contribute to increased cholesterol levels if consumed frequently, particularly in individuals sensitive to dietary cholesterol.
- Potential for allergic reactions in individuals with shellfish allergies, causing symptoms like itching, swelling, or anaphylaxis.
- Risk of heavy metal exposure such as mercury, depending on the source of the crabs, which can pose long-term health risks with excessive consumption.
How to choose crabs
When choosing crabs, they should be alive and active if bought fresh. Their shells should be intact and not feel light, which can indicate a lack of meat inside. Observe the movement of the crabs; they should be lively, not lethargic.
Avoid crabs that have cracked shells or any foul odor. Fresh crabs should have a mild, briny scent, not an overpowering fishy smell.
How to store crabs
Live crabs should be stored in a cool, moist environment, such as the refrigerator, and used within 24 hours. Keep them in a ventilated container to allow them to breathe. For longer storage, freezing cooked crabs is recommended.
Storing live crabs in water can cause them to suffocate and spoil. It is important to keep them cool and moist, but not submerged. Ensure they are handled with care to avoid damage and maintain freshness.
β Extra Tip
How long do they last?
Crabs can last for 1-2 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, crabs can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Proper packaging, such as vacuum-sealing, helps maintain their quality over longer storage periods.
What to do with leftovers?
π¨ββοΈοΈ Medical disclaimer
How crabs support specific health conditions
Crabs are a nutrient-dense seafood rich in protein, promoting muscle health and aiding in tissue repair. They contain omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart health by lowering cholesterol and reducing inflammation. Crabs are also a good source of selenium and zinc, which support immune function and protect cells from oxidative damage. Additionally, crabs are low in calories and fat, making them an excellent option for weight management, while their B vitamins support brain function and energy metabolism.
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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