One North Carolina family farm knows the importance of keeping the herd healthy, as they are one of the few Wagyu producers in the nation!
They say it has allowed them to create a unique product while enjoying the science behind it.
“We felt like it was a very niche market. It was a really cool, fun beef angle, just this high-end product, a very neat palette experience for the consumer, different than what you know, most people are used to, and just, you know, a fun spin on that, while also my husband loves the genetic side,” said Jaclyn Smith.
Wagyu beef came to the U.S. back in the 1970s. Right now, there is around 40,000 head across the country.
Related Stories
Despite rising costs and growing food insecurity, meat demand remained strong in 2025 as higher-income consumers offset cutbacks elsewhere. Economists break down the K-shaped economy, upcoming USDA cattle reports, livestock production outlooks, and renewed debate over beef imports and country-of-origin labeling heading into 2026.
Midland County Livestock Association President Brandon Mitchell reflects on another strong year for the event, including a premium sale that once again topped the million-dollar mark.
Livestock strength is carrying the farm economy, while crop margins remain tight and increasingly dependent on risk management and financial discipline.
Strong balance sheets still matter, but liquidity, planning, and lender relationships are critical as ag credit tightens, according to analysis from AgAmerica Lending.
Protein-driven dairy growth is boosting beef supply potential, creating an opening to support rural jobs and ground beef availability.
U.S. agriculture entered the week with mixed signals as weather, logistics, and markets shaped early-year decisions. Here is a regional breakdown of domestic crop and livestock production for the week of Monday, Jan. 19, 2026.
