Japanese firm imitates horsehair crab using fish paste

Kanetetsu Delica Foods Inc. released an imitation seafood delicacy fish paste re-creating the flavor of the seasonal favorite horsehair crab with fish paste.

The delicacy, which will hit the shelves between Dec. 25 and Dec. 31, will be from the company’s flagship line under which fish cakes re-create the taste, touch, and appearance of other pricey seafood.

The chunky meat of the horsehair crab is replicated by cutting short, thick slices of fish paste.

The imitation horsehair crab will include a yellowish substance that replicates the crab's internal organs.

Snow crabs and king crabs reproductions, which were available late last year, will also be sold at the same time.

A representative of Kanetetsu Delica Foods said the crab-based articles help decorate tables at the year-end and New Year holidays.

A 198-gram package will carry a price tag of 1,080 yen ($7.20), including tax. Only 1,000 sets will be available, and they are scheduled for delivery in late December.