Kanikama (Crab Stick) Day
Food DaysWhat Is Kanikama Day?
The 22nd of every month except June is "Kanikama Day" in Japan -- a day for crab-flavored surimi sticks. It was established by Sugiyo Co., Ltd. of Nanao, Ishikawa Prefecture, a well-known maker of processed seafood, to bring the taste of kanikama to more people.
Claws That Look Like a Pair of Characters
Both the date and the one month left out come back to crabs.
- Origin of the date: a crab's claws resemble the characters ニニ, suggesting the 22nd of each month
- Why June is excluded: June 22 is Crab Day, left to the real thing out of respect
- Established by: Sugiyo Co., Ltd. of Nanao, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Purpose: to let more people enjoy the taste of kanikama
Born from a Failed Artificial Jellyfish
Sugiyo launched the world's first kanikama, "Kaniashi," in 1972. The company had been trying to develop an artificial jellyfish; the attempt failed, but when someone shredded the reject and tasted it, the texture resembled crab meat. Sugiyo itself tells the story of pivoting from there to crab-flavored surimi.
Tips for Marking This Day
- Add kanikama to a salad or a hot pot
- Compare the texture and color across different makers
- Stock up for New Year dishes such as osechi or chirashi sushi
- Share the story of how kanikama was invented
A Failure That Traveled the World
A food nobody set out to make is now eaten across the globe. Kanikama Day is also a prompt to think about where unsuccessful attempts can lead.