Why is Wagyu so expensive?

There's no denying that Wagyu beef is expensive, often costing two to three times more than regular beef. But is it really worth the extra cost, especially when it comes to making a burger? In this blog post, we'll explore why Wagyu beef is worth the splurge and how it can elevate your weekend burger game tenfold.

What is Wagyu Beef?

Wagyu beef is a type of beef that comes from four breeds of cattle native to Japan: Japanese Black, Japanese Brown, Japanese Polled, and Japanese Shorthorn. These cows are raised with a special diet and environment that helps to create their unique flavour and texture.

One of the most distinctive features of Wagyu beef is its high level of marbling, which refers to the white streaks of fat that run throughout the meat. This marbling helps keep the meat tender and juicy and contributes to its rich flavour. Wagyu beef is often used for high-end cuts like ribeye and filet mignon, but it can also be ground and used for burgers.

Why does Wagyu have the high price tag?

The high cost of Wagyu beef is due to several factors. First and foremost, the process of raising and producing Wagyu beef is much more labour-intensive and time-consuming than regular beef. The cows are raised with a special diet that includes grains, grass, and beer and are given plenty of space to roam and exercise. This extra care and attention help to create the high level of marbling and tenderness that Wagyu beef is known for.

Additionally, the demand for Wagyu beef is high, particularly in Japan, the UK, and the United States. This means that there is a limited supply, which drives up the price.

Why is Wagyu beef worth the extra cost for your burger?

When it comes to burgers, many people assume that the type of beef you use doesn't matter. After all, a burger is just a burger, right? But if you've ever tasted a burger made with Wagyu beef, you know that this assumption couldn't be further from the truth.

Here are just a few reasons why Wagyu beef is worth the extra cost for your burger:

Exceptional flavour: Wagyu beef has a rich, buttery flavour that is unmatched by other types of beef. This is due in part to its high level of marbling, which helps to keep the meat juicy and tender while also imparting a unique taste.

Juiciness: When you bite into a burger made with Wagyu beef, you'll notice that the meat is incredibly juicy and moist. This is due to the high-fat content in Wagyu beef, which keeps the meat from drying out during cooking.

Tenderness: Wagyu beef is known for its exceptional tenderness, which makes it a joy to eat. You won't have to worry about tough, chewy meat ruining your burger experience when you use Wagyu beef.

Health Benefits: While Wagyu beef is higher in fat than regular beef, it also contains higher levels of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA). These compounds have been linked to a range of health benefits, including reduced inflammation, improved heart health, and better brain function.

While the cost of Wagyu beef may seem prohibitive, its benefits in terms of flavour, juiciness, tenderness, and health make it well worth the splurge. Whether you're grilling up burgers for a back garden soirée or treating the family on a Friday night, using Wagyu beef is sure to take your burger game into the stratosphere, and your next barbecue will be the envy of all your guests.

If you would like to order some of the best Wagyu beef available in the UK, head to our website and grab some today. Perfect for that indulgent weekend family treat or grilled up and enjoyed al-fresco.