Research Update: Qualitative Analysis of Specialized Supply Chain Relationships in Wagyu-influenced Beef

Wagyu beef is highly marbled with a reputation for unique taste and tenderness. However, Wagyu cattle have significantly longer production cycles than conventional breeds, resulting in higher costs (Radunz et al., 2009). Wagyu-Angus cross breeding, with offspring known as Wangus, is a potential solution to the relative inefficiency of Wagyu cattle. Given the unique nature of Wangus production, producers may benefit from direct relationships with feedyards, processors, and buyers, helping ensure financial rewards for additional costs of Wagyu beef (Schroeder, Coffey, and Tonsor, 2021).