Wagyu Beef: Why Is It The Most Expensive On The Market?
There are many different types of beef on the market, but Wagyu beef is by far the most expensive. Why is this? What makes Wagyu beef so special? In this blog post, we will answer these questions and more. We will explore the history of Wagyu beef, what makes it unique, and where you can find it. By the end of this post, you will know everything you need to know about Wagyu beef!
It’s About The Marbling
Wagyu cattle are fed a diet of grain, soybeans, and corn, which helps to produce the signature marbling effect in the meat. The marbling makes Wagyu beef incredibly tender and juicy, with a rich flavor that is unlike any other beef on the market.
History Of Wagyu Beef
Wagyu beef was originally bred in Japan for work animals, such as oxen. The cattle were known for their strength and endurance, making them perfect for working in rice paddies and other difficult environments. Over time, Japanese breeders began to focus on creating Wagyu cattle that was optimized for meat quality rather than work.
This resulted in heavier Wagyu cattle that had more marbling than any other cattle on the market. The first Wagyu beef was exported to the United States in 1976, quickly becoming a favorite among chefs and restaurants.
Today, Wagyu beef is one of the most sought-after meats in the world, and it is often used in high-end restaurants.
What Makes It So Expensive?
Wagyu beef is incredibly rare, and there are only a handful of Wagyu cattle farms worldwide. The cattle are also very difficult to raise, requiring a specific diet and environment.
All of these factors contribute to the high cost of Wagyu beef. However, many people say that the taste and quality of Wagyu beef are worth the price!
In most cases, a cut of Wagyu beef will be accompanied by a certifying body score. The Japanese Meat Grading Association is the most commonly used, and their grading system goes from A to C, with A being the highest quality. The score considers factors such as marbling, color, texture, and fat content. This quality control method has sparked various industry quality benchmarks leading to innovations like blockchain food supply chain aimed at ensuring quality and transparency from source to table.
Where Can You Find Wagyu Beef?
If you are interested in trying Wagyu beef, there are a few places you can find it.
Wagyu cattle are raised all over the world, but the majority of Wagyu beef comes from Japan. You can also find Wagyu beef from Australia, the United States, and Canada.
You can usually find Wagyu beef in high-end restaurants, but it is also becoming more common in select grocery stores and butcher shops.
In conclusion, if you’re a beef lover, then you owe it to yourself to try Wagyu beef at least once! It is truly a unique and unparalleled experience. Whether you enjoy it in a restaurant or cook it at home, Wagyu beef is sure to make your taste buds happy.