How to Verify Authentic Japanese Wagyu: The Complete Guide to the 10-Digit ID
- 1. What is the Japanese Wagyu 10-Digit ID System?
- 2. Why This System is Crucial for Importers
- 3. How to Use the ID to Verify Your Wagyu (Step-by-Step)
- Step 1: Locate the 10-Digit Number
- Step 2: Access the Official Database
- Step 3: Enter the Code and Analyze the Data
- 4. Decoding the Results: What to Look For
- 5. Conclusion: Protecting Your Investment
In the global meat market, “Wagyu” has become a synonym for luxury. However, the rise of “Wagyu-style” or “Crossbred Wagyu” from other countries has made it difficult for importers to guarantee authenticity.
The key to identifying genuine Japanese Wagyu lies in a 10-digit Individual Identification Number. This guide explains how this system works and how you can use it to ensure you are providing your customers with the real deal.
1. What is the Japanese Wagyu 10-Digit ID System?
Every single head of beef cattle born in Japan is assigned a unique 10-digit ID number. This is mandated by Japanese law (the “Special Measures Law Concerning the Management and Communication of Information for Individual Identification of Cattle”).
From the moment of birth, a yellow ear tag is attached to the calf. This number acts like a passport, recording every detail of the animal’s life. For an importer, this is not just a number—it is indisputable evidence of origin.
2. Why This System is Crucial for Importers
Why should you care about a 10-digit code? It provides three pillars of value for your business:
- Total Traceability: You can track the beef back to the specific farm, the date of birth, and even its lineage (pedigree).
- Safety Assurance: Japan maintains one of the world’s strictest tracking systems to prevent BSE and other food safety issues.
- Fraud Prevention: Unlike “Wagyu-style” beef produced elsewhere, only 100% Japanese Wagyu can be tracked through the official National Livestock Breeding Center (NLBC) database.
3. How to Use the ID to Verify Your Wagyu (Step-by-Step)
When you purchase Japanese Wagyu, the 10-digit ID should be clearly printed on the shipping carton, the carcass certificate, or the individual vacuum-sealed primal cuts.
Step 1: Locate the 10-Digit Number
Check the Certificate of Authenticity or the label on the meat packaging. It is a simple 10-digit numerical code (e.g., 1234567890).
Step 2: Access the Official Database
Visit the National Livestock Breeding Center (NLBC) website. They provide an English interface for international buyers.
- Official Link: National Livestock Breeding Center (NLBC) Search
Step 3: Enter the Code and Analyze the Data
Once you enter the code, the system will display:
- Date of Birth & Gender
- Breed (e.g., Black Hull Wagyu / Japanese Black)
- Fattening History (Where it was raised)
- Slaughter Date and Facility
Note for Buyers: If a supplier cannot provide this 10-digit ID, or if the ID does not match the breed or slaughter date on your invoice, it is a major red flag for counterfeit product.
4. Decoding the Results: What to Look For
To ensure you are getting premium quality, pay attention to these specific fields in the search results:
| Field | What it means for Quality |
| Kind of Cattle | Must say “Japanese Black” (Kuroge Washu) for the highest quality. |
| Prefecture | Look for famous regions like Miyazaki, Kagoshima, or Hyogo. |
| Maternal Lineage | High-end importers check this to ensure superior genetics for marbling. |
5. Conclusion: Protecting Your Investment
The 10-digit ID system is what keeps the integrity of Japanese Wagyu intact. By utilizing this system, you protect your brand’s reputation, justify the premium price point to your customers, and ensure you are serving the finest beef in the world.
Always insist on seeing the 10-digit ID before finalizing your Wagyu import contract.
