Why Wagyu Beef Stands Apart
100 PERCENT FULL BLOOD WAGYU
Well known to be as luxurious as truffles and caviar, Wagyu beef is now one of the most demanded meat products in fine dining. Known for being extremely tender and fat, this steak graces many Michelin-starred menus around the world. However, most people do not realize that although it is a delicacy, Wagyu beef also has many health benefits that come with it.
What is Wagyu?
Wagyu is a breed of cattle that is known for its high-quality marbling. Wagyu beef is considered to be some of the best beef in the world due to its intense umami flavor, intramuscular fat, and buttery texture.
The Wagyu breed is native to Japan. The word “Wagyu” (和牛) means Japanese cow in English, and actually refers to four specific breeds of Wagyu cattle: Japanese Brown (赤毛和種 Akage Washu), Japanese Black (黒毛和種 Kuroge Washu), Japanese Shorthorn (very lean and only in Japan), Japanese Polled (very small numbers, only in Japan). While these are the four original breeds that comprise all modern-day Wagyu beef, cross-breeding has occurred in Japan and the United States. The United States produced Wagyu cattle through a joint venture with the Japanese government in 1989 that created most of the American Wagyu Beef that we know.
To take matters further, Wagyu farmers feed their cattle on specific diets. These support the growth of this intramuscular fat, which leads to them having a higher fat content than a standard beef cow. What you might not realize, is that monounsaturated fat (MUFA), is considered “good fat.” which is one of the reasons behind the range of health benefits that come from eating Wagyu beef.
Essential Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids
- Essential in building strong cell walls in the heart, lungs, and brain.
- Can lead to improved brain function and lung health.
Omega-6 fatty acids
- Assists in clearing “bad” cholesterol from your body.
- Brain health
- Staying awake
- Avoiding depression
Guidelines for Eating Monosaturated Fats
In order to function properly, your body needs to eat some fat. Monounsaturated fats are a healthy choice.
According to the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, you should eat fats according to the following guidelines:
- No more than 10% of your total daily calories should come from saturated fat and trans fats (found in processed foods).
- Out of a 2,000 calorie diet, the total amount of calories from saturated and trans fat should be 140 to 200 calories or 16 to 22 grams per day.
- Keep total fat consumption to no more than 25% to 30% of your daily calories. This includes monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
Health Benefits of Wagyu Beef
As mentioned, Wagyu beef is healthy and packed with monounsaturated fatty acids. It is also packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals like iron. You will also find that Wagyu beef supplies a lot of B vitamins. This comes from feeding the cows healthy grains and allowing them to slowly gain weight.
Experience the Great Taste and Benefits of Wagyu For Yourself!