Triple T Ranch Sets the Record Straight for U.S. Customers
If you’ve heard of Wagyu beef, you’re likely a savvy shopper looking for health-conscious foods for your family, or you’re someone who appreciates gourmet foods. However, several myths are being spread on the Internet concerning this highly marbled meat that originated in Japan. Below, we’ve answered our most frequently asked questions to educate potential customers about the quality of American Wagyu beef raised at our Southern Alabama ranch and many other locations in the United States. Should you not find the answer to your specific concern listed, we invite you to reach out to our customer care team for further facts and information.
Has Wagyu Beef Been Banned in the United States?
Whether you’re referring to Japanese Wagyu beef or American Wagyu beef, the answer is no. Live animals or their DNA may be banned from being exported from Japan, but exporting meat is still allowed. Because Japanese Wagyu beef is only available in a limited supply due to a strict international quota and tariff system, many U.S. ranchers now breed their own Wagyu cattle. Wagyu cattle were first imported to the U.S. in 1975, long before the ban on live animal exports. The Wagyu cattle seen on U.S. ranches like Triple T Ranch are descendants of those originally imported herds. The American Wagyu Association registers Wagyu cattle in the United States and Canada, ensuring specific standards are met.
What’s So Special About Japanese or American Wagyu Beef?
Wagyu beef is highly marbled, giving it an even, generous distribution of fat and a rich, buttery taste. Foodies and gourmet chefs alike praise its juicy tenderness. It’s considered one of the most luxurious meats, prized for both its flavor and rareness. If you’re looking for a melt-in-your-mouth experience with your steak, you can’t go wrong with ordering Wagyu beef wherever it’s available.
Aside from Taste, What Are Benefits of Eating Wagyu Beef?
Aside from its rich taste, Wagyu beef is also believed to be healthier than other red meats. It contains a higher ratio of monounsaturated fat thanks to its marbling, which can lead to lower cholesterol, the prevention of coronary heart disease, and even weight loss for some individuals. Wagyu beef from the family-owned and -operated Triple T Ranch is also high in oleic acid, which is good for your heart.
Are Wagyu Cattle Force-Fed to Make Their Meat More Marbled?
Whether raised in Japan or the U.S., there is absolutely no evidence of Wagyu cattle being force-fed to make their meat more marbled. Force-feeding the cattle would actually lower the meat’s quality by placing additional stress on the animals. When cows are overfed, they can develop a sometimes-fatal condition called ruminal acidosis. The key to better quality meat is usually better care for the animals.
Why Am I Paying So Much for Fatty Meat? Where’s the Beef?
The marbling of Wagyu beef may mean it’s among the fattiest meats you can buy, but it’s a different kind of fat. Wagyu beef has about 30% more monounsaturated fat than other beef types. This fat not only gives it a superior taste, but it may also mean it’s more heart-healthy than most kinds of red meat.
Can Individuals Order Wagyu Beef or Just High-End Restaurants?
Wagyu beef is typically targeted to high-end restaurants that can afford to buy it in bulk, but some ranches like Triple T Ranch also offer it in individual portions. Just because meat is labeled Wagyu, it does not mean you are getting the same quality. It pays to do your research and know your source. Triple T Ranch makes it easy to shop for quality American Wagyu beef without leaving your house.
Where Can I Find Wagyu Beef Recipes and Other Information?
Triple T Ranch is proud to feature delicious Wagyu beef recipes and cooking instructions on our website to educate our customers about the best ways to enjoy their purchase from us. You may also check out our blogs for more information about the many benefits of investing in American Wagyu beef!