Today's seafood and specifically crab meat, couldn't be an easier or friendlier kitchen companion. Convenient seafood goes way beyond a can of tuna.

Many studies, including a risk/benefit analysis conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health, confirm that seafood should be included as part of a healthy diet. The benefits of eating seafood may include improved brain function, heart health and neonatal development. Crab ranks among those species of seafood with the lowest levels of potentially harmful mercury, which makes it an ideal choice for women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant. In addition, virtually all species of fish and shellfish are either a good or excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which may offer protection against both coronary heart disease and stroke. The 2005 Dietary Guidelines recommended that Americans choose fish as a source of lean protein at least twice per week. Phillips Pasteurized Crab Meat has only 45 Calories and no fat in every 2 oz. serving.

Always purchase pasteurized, fresh, frozen or canned seafood from reputable sources or with recognized brand names to ensure quality. Phillips crab meat is hand-picked and graded then hermetically sealed and pasteurized in cans to insure an 18-month refrigerated shelf life, free of any artificial additives or preservatives. In addition, all Phillips crab meat is FDA inspected and subjected to rigorous quality control standards.

Follow these guidelines and tips to come up with your own signature crab-meat recipe, or click here for some of our favorites.

1. Create a base
   Although Phillips crab meat is delicious and ready to eat right from the can or plastic container, a variety of crab-meat recipes start with a base of some sort, such as a dressing, sauce or starch or vegetable mixture that will further enhance the pure sweet eating quality of the crab meat. A simple meal can be ready in minutes by creating this base first.
2. Fold in crab meat
   Phillips crab meat has a delicate texture that should be preserved as much as possible. Gently folding in the crab meat, as opposed to stirring or beating it into the base, will help maintain the delicate pieces of crab meat.
3. Serve! Bake and Serve! Or Chill and Serve!
   Work is done and it's time to enjoy. While your crab meat entrée is baking or chilling, prepare additional appropriate meal accompaniments that will complement and complete your meal both aesthetically and nutritionally. Remember: all seafood-based salads should be kept in the coldest part of the refrigerator and maintain a temperature of no more than 40 degrees F. Hot dishes should be kept warm until service at a minimum of 135 degrees F.

Phillips Crab Meat is a great addition to some of your favorite prepared foods to help turn a side dish or a side thought into a hearty and nutritious meal. Try some of the following ideas for the ultimate convenience:

• Fold 8 oz. Phillips Crab Meat and 1 drained and chopped can of artichoke heart into a prepared package of frozen creamed spinach. Melt shredded Swiss or Monterey Jack cheese on top and serve with crackers or crusty French bread.
• Fold 8 oz. Phillips Crab Meat into a prepared can or frozen package of corn chowder. Stir in minced pieces of canned chipotle peppers or a few dashes of Tabasco Smoked Tabasco Sauce.
• Fold 8 oz. Phillips Crab Meat into 2 cups of thawed hash brown potatoes, mixed with 1 beaten egg. Form into cakes and saute in butter or oil until golden brown and heated through. Serve topped with melted sharp Cheddar cheese or ketchup spiked with your favorite hot sauce. Make a complete meal by adding a side of steamed broccoli or other green vegetable.