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
Heavier weights and strong late-year slaughter supported December production, but lower annual totals highlight ongoing supply tightness heading into 2026.
Junior Livestock Champions Grand Champion Market Steer, topping out at $320,000
Rising import pressure and tougher export competition are likely to persist into 2026, supporting domestic supplies while capping export growth.
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and Public Lands Council published a joint press release regarding the advancement of legislation to delist the Mexican Gray Wolf from the Endangered Species Act.
Placements and marketings beat expectations, but declining on-feed totals and feeder constraints keep the supply story supportive for cattle prices into 2026. Dr. Derrell Peel, with Oklahoma State University, joined us to break down cattle-on-feed numbers and provide his broader market outlook.
