July 23, 2007

Japan to intensify breeding of Wagyu cattle 

Japan is gearing up to fortify Wagyu cattle in the market with the development of a new breed by the Japan Livestock Technology Association.

The new breed -- which came from Kuroge Washu, a black hair Wagyu cattle -- will redeem Wagyu through genes involved in the marbling of beef. The breed is currently undergoing patent application process.

The "Zenchikuren" or the National Livestock Farmers Co-op Federation is also conducting "umami" on the Wagyu beef. "Umami" is one of five basic source tastes for Wagyu beef and often the basis of savour, complexity and depth. The study aims to scientifically capture the "umami" of Wagyu beef, by conducting various analyses, including the fatty acids, amino acids and nucleic acids contained in beef.

Japan exported 74.6 tonnes of beef in 2006 valued at 653 million yen (US$5.4 million), an increase of 5 percent in volume and 40 percent in value from the previous year. Premium Wagyu beef was the main export with US and South East Asia as the main destination.

As other countries also produce Wagyu, the association has established a committee to introduce a generic logo for Wagyu born and raised in Japan. The new logo is to be launched later this year to promote Japanese Wagyu both in Japan and overseas markets.