A prized crustacean with delicate, sweet meat and a tender texture, crab serves as a nutrient-dense protein source that provides essential marine-derived fats.
EPICchoice
FoodCompass 2.0: 97.39
Wholefood
1 nova
Low GI
Blood sugar load
££££
Premium
benefits
Brain & Nerves
Vitamin B12, Iodine
Blood Health
Vitamin B12, Folate
Immune Defense
Zinc, Vitamin A
Energy Support
Phosphorus, Pantothenic acid
Click flower to inspect facets
Nutritional summary
Crab is a source of long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, which are essential components of cell membranes and serve as precursors for lipid mediators (molecules that regulate inflammation) WW.
Consumption of seafood like crab during pregnancy and lactation is consistently linked to neurocognitive development in children, as the brain and retina require these specific fats for growth PUWWPM.
Regular seafood intake during infancy is associated with a decreased risk of developing asthma during childhood, according to a systematic review of pediatric health outcomes WW.
Crab provides a high concentration of essential amino acids (the building blocks of protein that the body cannot produce on its own), including leucine, lysine, and valine, which are necessary for muscle maintenance and metabolic function.
Like most marine animals, crab contains trace amounts of arsenic; however, institutional reviews generally emphasize that the developmental benefits of seafood consumption outweigh potential risks from contaminants when following standard dietary guidelines WWWW.
Interesting fact
Crabs have a unique 'blue blood' due to the presence of hemocyanin, a copper-based molecule that transports oxygen throughout their bodies.