How Much Is a Wagyu Steak? Why is Wagyu So Expensive?

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Japanese Wagyu cows yield buttery, luxurious cuts of meat that start off around $250 per pound. And that’s straight from the butcher. You might be wondering... Is it really worth it?

Wagyu refers to a type of beef that originates from cows in Japan. What makes Wagyu beef so special is its marbling, which comes as a result of excellent farming practices and superior genetic breeding.

Let's break down the 2 main factors contributing to Wagyu’s high quality and high price...

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[{"selector":"#anim-8373ec69-cd53-4541-88c3-88403c14054b","keyframes":{"opacity":[0,1]},"delay":0,"duration":1500,"easing":"cubic-bezier(0.2, 0.6, 0.0, 1)","fill":"both"}] [{"selector":"#anim-8490f43e-66c9-4361-91be-9f67a39a4c92","keyframes":{"transform":["translate3d(-112.77259%, 0px, 0)","translate3d(0px, 0px, 0)"]},"delay":0,"duration":1500,"easing":"cubic-bezier(0.2, 0.6, 0.0, 1)","fill":"both"}] [{"selector":"#anim-000403ea-acf0-4a02-a679-8cb84486648b","keyframes":{"transform":["scale(2)","scale(1)"]},"delay":0,"direction":"normal","duration":1000,"easing":"cubic-bezier(0.23, 1, 0.32, 1)","fill":"forwards","iterations":1}] [{"selector":"#anim-5060033d-0852-4200-bed6-efa64f3cb661","keyframes":{"transform":["translate3d(-35px, 160px, 0)","translate3d(0px, 0px, 0)"]},"delay":0,"direction":"normal","duration":1000,"easing":"cubic-bezier(0.445, 0.05, 0.55, 0.95)","fill":"forwards","iterations":1}] [{"selector":"#anim-0e03c57c-aa4a-477a-abf1-82dd062b5520","keyframes":{"opacity":[0,1]},"delay":0,"duration":2000,"easing":"cubic-bezier(0.4, 0.4, 0.0, 1)","fill":"both"}] The result is cows that grow to about 1,500 pounds with 50% fat by the time it’s ready for processing. Wagyu cows' relatively low-stress lifestyle also contributes to fattier, more tender meat. Burst with Arrow Learn more

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So is Wagyu beef worth it? Absolutely! If you’re in a position to splurge for a luxury meal, you truly will not be disappointed. Learn more about what makes Wagyu so special at Top Sous Vide. Click the link below!