Vermont Wagyu is the first farm in the United States to ship Certified Authentic Wagyu beef, a new USDA-certified program of the American Wagyu Association.

Vermont Wagyu will now feature the new Certified Authentic Wagyu label on the packaging of their 100% Fullblood Wagyu. The Certified Authentic Wagyu label will be introduced gradually across Vermont Wagyu's product line.

Vermont Wagyu Certified Authentic Wagyu beef. Photo courtesy of Vermont Wagyu

While Japan uses its A5 grading system to classify Wagyu marbling, the US has long relied on broader USDA categories such as Prime, Choice and Select, until now. Recognizing that American Wagyu often exceeds Prime standards, the AWA began advocating in 2019 for a more refined system. In 2024, the USDA introduced a new upper Prime tier, giving producers a way to showcase the quality of American Wagyu.

Sheila Patinkin, owner of Vermont Wagyu, spearheaded the American Wagyu Association committee responsible for creating the Certified Authentic Wagyu label.

Sheila Patinkin, owner of Vermont Wagyu. Photo courtesy of Vermont Wagyu

"This program is vital to differentiating the outstanding quality of American Wagyu beef," said Patinkin. "By looking for the Certified Authentic Wagyu label, consumers, restaurants, and food service workers alike can now identify the quality of their beef with confidence."

Source: Vermont Wagyu