Matsusaka Beef Day
Food DaysWhat Is Matsusaka Beef Day?
The 19th of every month is "Matsusaka Beef Day" in Japan. It was established by Yamato Dining Co., Ltd. of Funabashi, Chiba Prefecture, a mail-order retailer of Matsusaka beef nationwide, after the date on which the Matsusaka Beef Individual Identification Management System began operating: August 19, 2002. The aim is to promote the flavor of Matsusaka beef and energize the industry as a whole.
Not a Pun -- the Day a Tracking System Went Live
Many Japanese food anniversaries come from number puns, but this one comes from the day a management system started running.
- Origin of the date: August 19, 2002, when the Matsusaka Beef Individual Identification Management System began operating, hence the 19th of each month
- Established by: Yamato Dining Co., Ltd. of Funabashi, Chiba Prefecture
- Purpose: to convey the appeal of Matsusaka beef and support the wider industry
- Reading: as a brand name it is read "Matsusaka-ushi"
A 10-Digit Number That Traces the Animal
Every head of cattle raised in Japan carries a 10-digit individual identification number. The Matsusaka Beef system builds on that number with more than 30 items of information, including date of birth, place of birth, bloodline, the farm that raised the animal and the number of days it was fattened. It is administered by Matsusaka Meat Corporation. Enter the number printed on the sticker or certificate that comes with your purchase and you can look the animal up yourself.
Tips for Marking This Day
- Look up the individual identification number on a Matsusaka beef sticker or certificate
- Plan a winter beef dish such as sukiyaki or shabu-shabu
- Consider branded beef for a year-end gift or holiday meal
- Compare Matsusaka beef with Japan's other branded wagyu
Wagyu in an Age When a Number Tells the Story
Matsusaka Beef Day is a chance to appreciate not only the taste of wagyu but the system that stands behind it. In a season of year-end feasts, tracing one number can change how a plate of beef looks.