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King Crab

King Crab 2

The largest and most impressive of all crabs caught in the world, Alaska king crab is unmatched in flavor and texture.

 

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Fact Sheets

Scientific Name: Paralithodes camtschaticus and Lithodes aequispinus

#1

Wild Alaska red king crab is the largest of the king crab species, with a leg span often reaching 5 ft. and weighing up to 24 lbs.

6.5″ and 5″

Only males with a carapace of at least 6.5 inches can be caught for red and 5 inches for gold, and harvest is not permitted during mating and molting.

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There are three kinds of king crab; red, blue and golden

Nutrition

Protein
16g
Omega 3
351mg
Vitamin B-12
9.8mcg (408% DV)
Wild Alaska red king crab gets an ‘A’ for its high content of vitamin B-12, high-quality protein, and omega-3s.

The high protein content of wild Alaska red king crab is easily digestible, and has all nine amino acids the body can’t produce itself — a complete protein of the highest quality

Benefits of vitamin B-12:

  • Helps form red blood cells and prevent anemia
  • Risk reduction of macular degeneration
  • Prevents neuron loss
  • Supports bone loss and prevents osteoporosis
  • Supports healthy skin, hair, and nails
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DV = Daily Value // 3.0 oz = 85g Source: USDA Standard Reference Release 28

Harvesting & Seasonality

Different species of wild Alaska king crab are harvested throughout the year so both fresh and frozen king crab is available year-round.

Crab harvesting seasons calendar

Wild king crab are harvested via pot fishing.

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Sustainability & Environment

In Alaska, protecting the future of both the stocks and environment take priority over opportunities for commercial harvest. Federal and State agencies jointly manage the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands golden king crab stocks, whereas the ADF&G solely manages Southeast Alaska crab stocks. Additional measures, such as the Crab Rationalization Program and a stringent onboard observer program ensure sustainably harvested wild Alaska golden king crab will be available for generations to come.

The Alaska king crab fishery is certified by an independent standard for sustainable fisheries, Alaska Responsible Fisheries Management (RFM).

Famous Shellfish: The Bering Sea red king crab fishery is prominently featured as part of the Discovery Channel’s hit reality show “Deadliest Catch.”

Red king crab is historically the most commercially valuable shellfish in Alaska, roughly 854 million pounds, worth $2.5 billion* has been harvested since 1975. *Not adjusted for inflation

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Product Forms & Availability

Wild Alaska king crab is available live and as fresh legs/claws when in-season, and in a variety of frozen options year round.

Find wild Alaska king crab varieties in your local grocer in the frozen and fresh sections. Unsure about origin? Just #AskforAlaska and look for the Alaska Seafood logo.

Purchase directly from sellers using our supplier’s directory.

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Cooking

This sweet and firm shellfish is rich and luxurious and easy to cook in simple recipes that include boiling, grilling, steaming and baking.

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