Microbial and nutritional attributes of soft crabs

Soft-shelled blue crabs (post molt hard blue crab - Callinectes sapidus, continue to be sought as a special, high priced culinary delight. Based on current costs per pound (I $8.00/lb. retail) the soft crab remains one of the highest priced seafood selections. Based on commercial experience, the frozen shelf life for properly packaged soft crabs can exceed 12 months. However, there are no reports on the recommended refrigerated shelf life, Likewise, there is no formal published data on the nutritional constituents of soft crabs. This report addresses these issues. (10pp.)