There's been a lot of talk lately about Arby's Wagyu Burger. Some people say that they're delicious, while others claim that they're nothing more than a sham. So what's the truth? Are Arby's Wagyu beef burgers fake? In this blog post, we'll take a look at the evidence and answer that question once and for all!
What is Wagyu?
Wagyu beef is a type of cattle that originates from Japan. The name "Wagyu" literally means "Japanese cow". Wagyu cattle are known for their high quality meat, which is prized for its marbled appearance and intense flavor.
So what's the problem? Well, some people claim that Arby's Wagyu Burgers are nothing more than regular burgers with a fancy name. They argue that most Wagyu beef sold in the United States is actually just regular old Angus beef, and that the term "Wagyu" is being used to charge higher prices. There are few labeling laws that regulate the percentage of Wagyu that a burger must contain in order to declare it a "Wagyu Burger."
Arby's Wagyu Burger
Take Arby's for example. They publicly stated that their new "Wagyu Burger" is in fact a mixture of 52% "American Wagyu" and 48% Angus Beef. If you read our blog and or follow us on social media we've spoken at length about American Wagyu being (at best) a 50-50 cross between Wagyu and (typically) Angus beef.
Therefore, if Arby's Wagyu Burger is 52% American Wagyu, the burger most likely contains at most 26% of actual Wagyu genetics.
Is Arby’s Wagyu Burger Just an Expensive Angus?
When it comes to Arby’s Wagyu Burger, discerning whether it’s genuinely worth the premium price or simply an upgraded Angus burger can be tricky. To answer this, let's dissect how it stacks up against true Wagyu beef.
Evaluating the Blend
Arby’s Wagyu Burger, with its 52% American Wagyu and 48% Angus beef composition, doesn’t quite match the high standards of a pure Wagyu burger. Instead, it offers a hybrid approach—enhancing the usual fast-food burger with a bit of Wagyu’s signature marbling but still predominantly anchored in Angus beef. This blend is designed to appeal to those seeking a more indulgent burger experience without the premium cost of authentic Wagyu.
Price vs. Value
The question arises: is this burger worth the extra cost? While it does provide a richer, more flavorful alternative to standard fast food burgers, calling it a true Wagyu experience might be an overstatement. The price reflects the marketing and premium branding rather than the full luxury of genuine Wagyu beef.
For those looking to truly experience the melt-in-your-mouth quality of authentic Wagyu, a pure Wagyu burger—like those offered by specialized meat providers—is the better choice. Arby’s Wagyu Burger, while a step up from average fast food, remains a blend that’s more about premium positioning than a true Wagyu experience.
What’s Inside Arby’s Wagyu Burger? Breaking Down the Ingredients
Arby’s Wagyu Burger has been a hot topic, raising questions about what truly makes up this premium offering. Is it the luxurious bite of Wagyu beef, or is it just clever marketing wrapped in a fancy bun? To answer this, let's break down exactly what goes into Arby’s Wagyu Burger and see how it compares to the expectations of a true Wagyu experience.
The Meat Blend: A Mix of American Wagyu and Angus Beef
At the heart of Arby’s Wagyu Burger is a blend of 52% American Wagyu and 48% Angus beef. American Wagyu is a crossbreed that combines the genetics of Japanese Wagyu cattle with American breeds, typically Angus. This blend is designed to offer some of the rich marbling that Wagyu is famous for, but it doesn’t fully replicate the deep flavor and buttery texture of authentic Japanese Wagyu.
The 52% American Wagyu in the burger means that at best, only about half of the beef can claim any Wagyu heritage—and even then, that Wagyu portion is often heavily crossbred with Angus. The result is a patty that’s juicier and more marbled than standard fast-food fare, but it’s not a pure Wagyu experience.
The Bun: A Soft Brioche Touch
Arby’s Wagyu Burger is served on a soft, toasted brioche bun, which adds a touch of sweetness and richness to the overall bite. Brioche buns are a popular choice for upscale burgers because of their soft texture and slight buttery flavor, complementing the juicy patty. While it’s a nice touch, the bun doesn’t elevate the burger to a luxury level but does provide a more refined experience than a typical fast-food bun.
Toppings: Classic Additions for a Familiar Flavor
The toppings on Arby’s Wagyu Burger are kept relatively simple, with a focus on enhancing the beef rather than overshadowing it. Standard toppings include American cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a special burger sauce. This combination is designed to provide a familiar and comforting flavor profile, similar to other classic American burgers.
The special sauce—a blend of mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and spices—adds a tangy kick, balancing the richness of the beef. While these toppings are tasty, they don’t particularly highlight the Wagyu aspect of the burger, instead providing a conventional fast-food taste.
So, What’s Really Inside?
When you order Arby’s Wagyu Burger, you’re getting a patty that’s part Wagyu and part Angus, on a brioche bun with familiar toppings. While it’s marketed as a premium product, the ingredients are a blend of the extraordinary and the ordinary, making it a step up from regular burgers but not quite reaching the gourmet heights of true Wagyu.
How to Find Authentic Wagyu Burgers: Tips for the Discerning Diner
For those seeking the true experience of Wagyu beef, distinguishing authentic Wagyu burgers from those that merely feature a blend or use the Wagyu name for marketing can be challenging. Here’s a guide to help you find and enjoy genuine Wagyu burgers:
1. Know the Source
Authentic Wagyu beef comes from specific breeds of cattle raised in Japan, particularly the Japanese Black, Japanese Brown, Japanese Shorthorn, and Japanese Polled. When looking for a true Wagyu burger, check if the beef is sourced from these regions or if it’s certified by reputable organizations that ensure it meets the rigorous standards of Japanese Wagyu.
2. Look for Certification Labels
In Japan, Wagyu beef is graded based on its marbling, color, and texture, and it is given a grade of A, B, or C, with each having a numerical score. When buying Wagyu beef, look for certification labels or grading information that confirms its authenticity. Some American Wagyu producers also provide certifications to verify the quality and origin of their beef.
3. Choose Reputable Purveyors
Opt for well-known and trusted meat purveyors or restaurants specializing in high-quality beef. Establishments with a reputation for quality and authenticity are more likely to offer genuine Wagyu burgers. Research customer reviews and ask for recommendations to ensure you’re choosing a reliable source.
4. Verify the Beef Blend
If you’re considering a Wagyu burger from a restaurant or fast-food chain, inquire about the beef blend. Authentic Wagyu burgers should be made from 100% Wagyu beef or a high percentage of it. Be wary of burgers labeled as “Wagyu” that include significant amounts of other types of beef, such as Angus, which might dilute the true Wagyu experience.
5. Check the Marbling
Wagyu beef is renowned for its exceptional marbling, which contributes to its rich flavor and tenderness. When dining out, look for burgers that showcase this distinctive marbling. While it may not always be visible in a cooked burger patty, a well-crafted Wagyu burger should have a noticeably rich and buttery texture when tasted.
6. Ask for Details
Don’t hesitate to ask the restaurant staff about the specifics of their Wagyu burger. Inquire about the beef’s origin, blend percentages, and any certifications. Genuine establishments will be transparent about their sourcing and preparation methods.
7. Try Specialty Butchers and Online Retailers
For those who prefer to prepare their own Wagyu burgers, specialty butchers and online retailers can be excellent sources. Look for retailers that specialize in premium meats and offer detailed information about their Wagyu beef, including its origin and grading.
8. Explore Authentic Wagyu Brands
Brands like The Meatery offer a range of authentic Wagyu options, including burgers made from pure Japanese Wagyu or high-quality American Wagyu. These brands are dedicated to providing the true Wagyu experience, ensuring that you get the rich, buttery flavor and exceptional quality you’re seeking.
By following these tips, you can confidently navigate the world of Wagyu beef and find burgers that truly live up to the esteemed reputation of this luxurious meat. Whether dining out or shopping for premium cuts, prioritizing authenticity will ensure that you enjoy the best of what Wagyu has to offer.
Experience True Wagyu Perfection at The Meatery: Your Destination for Authentic Wagyu Burgers
So what's the verdict? Are Arby's Wagyu Burgers fake? Unfortunately, there's no easy answer. The truth is that it does contain Wagyu and is most definitely labeled legally. There are certainly some unscrupulous businesses out there trying to pass off regular beef as Wagyu by packing it with a higher fat content, but we don't think this is the case.
If you're looking to try a Wagyu beef burger, do your research and make sure you're getting the real deal! The Meatery has a great selection of authentic Wagyu Burgers.
Our Australian Wagyu Burgers are slightly more savory but still incredibly delicate in taste. Their fat content is 80/20, but the buttery taste of the Wagyu fat is far superior to that of an Angus burger.
If you're looking for something richer we encourage you to try our Ground Japanese A5 Wagyu. This ground beef makes absolutely incredible burgers and can also be used for luxurious tacos, rich bolognese sauces or any other creation that calls for ground beef.
