In China, horseshoe crabs are not edible. The horseshoe crab has been included as a national protected animal, listed as a provincial key protected animal together with the southern horseshoe crab, and is listed as endangered in the "Red List of Chinese Species".

Eating horseshoe crab is not only illegal, but also poses health risks. Horseshoe crab meat contains a large molecule non-specific protein allergenic substance, which may cause allergic rashes, redness, swelling and itching on the skin after consumption. In severe cases, it may even lead to anaphylactic shock or fatal toxic reactions.