Wagyu cows are Japanese cattle that are raised differently to other cattle in a number of ways. There are even rumors that these cows are fed beer by farmers, but just how true is this?
Some cattle farmers do give Wagyu cows beer to increase their appetite and help them to gain weight. This is often done during the summer months when the cows tend to have less of an appetite.
In this article, we will look a little more closely at why some Wagyu cows are given beer, and what other unusual treatment they receive.
Wagyu Cows
Before we delve into the drinking habits of these creatures, let’s find out a little more about Wagyu cows. These cows are native to Japan and have certain genetic qualities that result in the metabolism of fat internally.
While there are four breeds of Japanese cows, only one has the genetic qualities that make them Wagyu cows. Some people make the mistake of believing that Wagyu refers to all Japanese cows, but this is not the case.
The metabolic process of Wagyu cows means that the fat is integrated into the muscle, which then results in meat that is intensely marbled with fat on the inside. The word Wagyu literally means Japanese cow, and the meat from these cows often features on menus in high-end restaurants.
These cows must be cared for and reared in a certain way in order for them to produce what has become the most expensive beef in the world. This includes being raised in a stress-free environment among other things.
Why Are Wagyu Cows Given Beer?
If you class yourself as something of a food connoisseur, you may have sampled Wagyu beef. This is luxury beef that has gained popularity among those with decadent tastes.
Over the years, there have been many rumors and stories in relation to how these cows are treated when they are being reared. One of the things you may have heard is that Wagyu cows drink beer.
Well, obviously these animals don’t meet up at the local bar for a beer or two a few times a week!
However, cattle farmers are known to treat these cows to beer every so often as part of the rearing process.
The reason why some farmers give their Wagyu cows beer is to increase their appetite. This then helps to achieve and maintain the right fat levels, which results in more tender meat.
At certain times of the year such as summer, the cows may lose their appetite and eat far less. Some farmers may give them beer in a bid to increase their appetite so that they continue eating and increasing their fat levels.
This doesn’t mean that these animals spend their entire time on the planet completely inebriated. They are simply fed beer in some instances to help stimulate their appetite and keep those fat levels up.
Other Special Treatment for Wagyu Cows
There are also various other differences when it comes to the way Wagyu cows are reared compared to other cows. In fact, Wagyu cows may come across as being positively pampered when it comes to the rearing process.
One of the key differences with these cows is that farmers need them to be in a stress-free environment. This means that they have to take certain steps to provide them with a comfortable setting that will not cause stress.
When cows get stressed, it can increase their cortisol levels, and this then impacts the quality of the beef. Naturally, this is something that the farmers want to avoid, and they sometimes go to great lengths to do this.
For instance, some Wagyu cows are known to be given regular massages by farmers in order to reduce stress and increase comfort. This is ultimately to help ensure better quality meat that is as tender as possible.
Another thing that farmers do to give their Wagyu cows a stress-free environment is to minimize noise. In fact, some are even known to play music for the cows when they eat, as it is thought that this could help to increase appetite.
Like all species, cows may sometimes develop a dislike for one another, and this is something else farmers are mindful of. Many will separate cows that do not get along so that they can reduce stress levels and create a more peaceful environment for them.
Pampered for a Reason
So, in conclusion, Wagyu cows are pampered for a reason, and this can include being given beer by farmers. The ultimate goal is to ensure they eat well, increase fat levels, reduce stress, and ensure the best quality beef.