The popularity of Wagyu continues to grow with this special calf

On 1st August 2025, we reached a major milestone at Warrendale Wagyu as the 100,000th Wagyu calf underwent DNA sire verification through our integrated supply chain.

This landmark figure underlines just how far British Wagyu has grown over the last decade. In 2014, there were only 2,405 Wagyu-sired births recorded by BCMS. By 2024, that number had risen to 45,232 calves born in Great Britain. This surge has been driven not only by the number of farmers raising Wagyu — now around 1,000 farms nationwide — but also by the increasing visibility and demand for Wagyu beef in both wholesale and retail.

DNA Testing at the Heart of Traceability

As part of the British Wagyu Assurance Scheme, every calf must be sire verified to a Fullblood Wagyu bull. Farmers use a branded British Wagyu ear tag for their calves, which releases a tissue vial for DNA testing. The 100,000th vial processed was from a Wagyu-cross Holstein bull calf, born on 15th July at Anns Hill Farm, Bridekirk, Cockermouth, Cumbria, from farmer James Steel.

Our Integrated Supply Chain

Based in Yorkshire, Warrendale Wagyu partners with farmers across the UK through a unique integrated supply chain, built on producing consistently high-quality British Wagyu beef in a sustainable way. Renowned as one of the best-tasting breeds in the world, Wagyu is famed for its highly marbled, delicious, and tender beef.

DNA verification guarantees full farm-to-fork traceability and product integrity, with the British Wagyu logo and stamp of authenticity proudly displayed on retail packs for partners including Aldi and Waitrose.

Benefits for Dairy Farmers

Using Wagyu genetics offers dairy farmers a range of advantages, including:

• • A premium-value calf

• • Smaller birthweights for easier calving

• • Vigorous, healthy calves

• • Comparatively short gestation lengths

Looking Ahead

This milestone is not just about the numbers; it reflects the dedication of our farmers, the strength of our partnerships, and the growing trust in British Wagyu. At Warrendale, we’re proud to be driving this progress and excited for the future of the breed in the UK.

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