What’s The Difference In Purebred Wagyu Beef and American Wagyu Beef?
If you’ve ever wondered whether that affordable “Wagyu” beef at a big box store is the real thing, you’re not alone. At Geary Farms Beef, a small family-owned cattle farm in Monroe, Georgia, we raise purebred, grass-fed Wagyu beef the right way — with transparency, ethical care, and 100% pasture-based feeding. But not all Wagyu is raised or labeled equally.
Let’s break down what Wagyu really means in the U.S...
What Does “Wagyu” Mean?
In Japan, Wagyu refers to four specific heritage breeds known for incredible marbling and flavor, raised under strict government oversight. In the United States, however, there are no federal regulations requiring beef labeled as “Wagyu” to be 100% purebred or fullblood.
In fact, most “Wagyu” beef sold in grocery stores is:
Crossbred (often Wagyu x Angus)
Only 25% to 50% Wagyu genetics
Grain-finished in feedlots
Mass-produced with little transparency
That means a package labeled “Wagyu” at Walmart or Costco may contain only a small percentage of actual Wagyu genetics — but still legally carry the name.
At Geary Farms, we raise purebred Wagyu beef — not crossbreeds. Our cattle are raised and we raise them entirely on pasture always, allowing them to forage naturally from start to finish until they reach a certain maturity. At that time, we offer (in addition to pasture) a nutrient and mineral rich diet necessary to produce superior marbling and tenderness without the use of growth hormones, naturally.
Our Wagyu cattle grow at a natural pace and are harvested only when ready — producing beef that’s richly marbled and rich in nutrients.
Purebred Wagyu Nutritional Facts
Here’s the scoop on the biggest differences in nutrition between Purebred Wagyu Beef and American Wagyu Beef:
Better Fatty Acid Profile
Higher in Omega-3 fatty acids (heart healthy)
More CLA (linked to fat loss and immune support)
Better Omega-6 to Omega-3 ratio
Higher in Micronutrients
More Vitamin A & E (antioxidants)
Rich in B vitamins, zinc, iron, and potassium
No added hormones or subtherapeutic antibiotics
No modified grains or confinement feeding
The result? A premium, nutrient-dense beef that’s both better for you — and raised the way nature and God intended.
Why It Matters: Know What You’re Really Buying
Most store-bought Wagyu in Georgia and across the U.S. is marketed in ways that confuse consumers. Just because it says “Wagyu” doesn’t mean it’s the real thing — or that the animal was raised humanely.
At Geary Farms Beef:
We’re fully transparent about our genetics and practices
We raise every animal on our own farm with ethical care
We deliver local, farm-to-table grass-fed Wagyu beef that you can trust
Ready to taste the difference in 100% pasture-raised purebred Wagyu beef?
Head back over to the home page to get on our waitlist today!
Health Benefits of Wagyu Beef: Is it Really Good for You?
Wagyu beef, known for its exceptional quality and distinct marbling, has gained popularity in recent years. Originating from Japan, this premium beef is highly regarded for its tenderness and rich flavor. But what sets Wagyu beef apart from regular beef? Is it really worth the hype?
What sets Wagyu beef apart from regular beef?
One of the key factors that differentiate Wagyu beef from regular beef is its marbling. The marbling refers to the intramuscular fat that is evenly distributed throughout the meat, creating a unique and luxurious texture. This marbling is what gives Wagyu beef its incredible tenderness and juiciness. In comparison, regular beef tends to have less marbling, resulting in a leaner and firmer texture.
Is Wagyu Beef High In Fat?
It is often assumed that Wagyu beef is high in fat due to its marbling. While it is true that Wagyu beef contains a higher fat content than regular beef, not all fat is created equal. The fat in Wagyu beef is primarily composed of monounsaturated fats, which are considered to be heart-healthy fats. These fats can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases when consumed in moderation.
Wagyu Beef Nutritional Value
Per 100 grams of cooked Wagyu beef:
Calories: 300
Protein: 26 grams
Fat: 21 grams
Saturated Fat: 9 grams
Monounsaturated Fat: 9 grams
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 gram
Cholesterol: 85 milligrams
Iron: 10% of the daily recommended intake
Zinc: 35% of the daily recommended intake
Vitamin B12: 110% of the daily recommended intake
The high levels of monounsaturated fats in Wagyu beef can also enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E, and K. These vitamins play crucial roles in various bodily functions, including immune function, bone health, and vision. Consuming Wagyu beef alongside a balanced diet can optimize the absorption and utilization of these important vitamins.
In conclusion, Wagyu beef can be considered a healthy choice when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It offers a range of health benefits, including improved heart health, weight management support, and enhanced nutrient absorption.
Please note that it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet.