Are you a fan of Australian Wagyu beef but unsure if it’s Halal?
Look no further, as we dive into the world of Wagyu and its Halal certification.
With its extensive marbling and rich flavor, Australian Wagyu beef is a popular choice for meat lovers around the world.
But for those who follow Halal dietary restrictions, it’s important to know if this type of beef is permissible to consume.
In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of Australian Wagyu beef and its Halal certification, so you can enjoy your favorite meat with peace of mind.
Is Australian Wagyu Beef Halal?
The answer is yes, Australian Wagyu beef can be Halal certified. In fact, the Australian Wagyu Association (AWA) is the only Halal certifier for Wagyu in Australia. All Wagyu produced by AWA members is Halal certified, ensuring that it meets the dietary requirements of Muslim consumers.
Halal certification means that the beef has been prepared and processed in accordance with Islamic dietary laws. This includes the way the animal is slaughtered, as well as the feed it is given prior to slaughter. If the cattle is fed alcohol before being slaughtered, then the Wagyu is considered Haram (forbidden) according to Islamic law. However, if the cattle is not fed any kind of alcohol, then it is considered Halal (permissible).
The AWA ensures that all of its members adhere to strict Halal certification standards. This means that the cattle are raised and fed in a manner that meets Halal requirements, and are slaughtered in a way that is consistent with Islamic law.
Understanding Halal Certification
Halal certification is a process that ensures that the beef has been produced in accordance with Islamic dietary laws. This process involves strict guidelines for animal welfare, diet, and slaughter, which must be followed throughout the animal’s life and during the slaughtering process. The certification process ensures that the meat is suitable for consumption by Muslims.
The Halal certification process involves several steps. First, the cattle must be raised in a manner that meets Halal requirements. This means that they should be fed a diet that does not include any forbidden substances, such as alcohol or pork. The cattle should also be treated humanely and not subjected to any unnecessary stress or harm.
Secondly, the slaughtering of the cattle must be done in accordance with Islamic law. This means that the animal must be alive at the time of slaughter and must be killed by a Muslim who recites the name of Allah before slaughtering the animal. The slaughtering process should be quick and painless, and the animal should not be stunned before being slaughtered.
Finally, after the slaughtering process, the meat must be handled and processed in a manner that meets Halal requirements. This includes ensuring that there is no cross-contamination with non-Halal meat and that all utensils used are clean and free from any impurities.
What Makes Australian Wagyu Beef Unique?
Australian Wagyu beef is unique in several ways. Firstly, it is a crossbreed between Japanese Wagyu and other breeds, which gives it a distinct flavor and texture. While it may not have the same level of marbling as Japanese Wagyu, it is still considered extremely flavorful due to its marbling. Additionally, Australian Wagyu cattle are raised and fed in Australia, which has a different climate and soil compared to Japan. This means that the beef has a distinctive taste that is influenced by the feed they are given. The cattle in the north of the country feed on tropical grasses, while those in the south feed on traditional grasses, contributing to a slight difference in taste.
Furthermore, Australian Wagyu is raised more quickly than Japanese Wagyu, which increases the amount of marbling in Australian meat. This also means that Australian Wagyu tends to be less expensive than Japanese Wagyu because it doesn’t take as long to raise. However, despite being crossbred and raised differently than Japanese Wagyu, Australian Wagyu still meets high standards of quality and flavor.
Finally, the AWA’s Halal certification for all of its members ensures that Australian Wagyu beef can be enjoyed by Muslim consumers who follow Halal dietary laws. This certification guarantees that the beef has been prepared and processed in accordance with Islamic dietary laws, including the way the animal is slaughtered and the feed it is given prior to slaughter.
The Halal Certification Process For Australian Wagyu Beef
The process of obtaining Halal certification for Australian Wagyu beef involves several steps. First, the cattle must be raised in accordance with Halal guidelines. This includes ensuring that the animals are well-treated, free from injury or scars, and fed a diet that is free from any Haram (forbidden) substances.
Next, the slaughtering process must also adhere to strict Halal guidelines. The animal must be slaughtered by a Muslim who has reached puberty and is capable of carrying out the slaughter. Before or during the act of butchering, the name of Allah must be said. The animal must also be facing Mecca, and an extremely sharp knife must be used to ensure a swift and painless slaughter. The animal must then be allowed to bleed out entirely, as blood is not considered Halal.
Once the slaughtering process is complete, the meat is inspected by a Halal certifying body to ensure that it meets all Halal certification standards. If the meat passes inspection, it is then certified as Halal and can be sold as such to Muslim consumers.
Where To Find Halal-Certified Australian Wagyu Beef
If you’re looking for Halal-certified Australian Wagyu beef, the best place to start is with AWA members. A quick search on their website will give you a list of producers and suppliers who offer Halal-certified Wagyu beef. You can also look for Halal-certified Australian Wagyu beef in specialty meat shops or online retailers that specialize in Halal meat.
When ordering online, it’s important to note that some retailers may require you to pick up your order from the airport, and there may be extra freight charges involved. It’s also important to pay attention to the marbling score of the beef, as some customers find a marbling score of 11 or above to be too fatty.
If you’re unsure about the authenticity of the beef, you can always request a certificate of authenticity for Japanese Wagyu beef. However, this may not be necessary if you’re ordering thinly sliced meat or Karubi slice.
Cooking Tips For Halal-Certified Australian Wagyu Beef
If you have purchased Halal-certified Australian Wagyu beef and are wondering how to cook it to perfection, here are some tips to help you get the most out of your meat:
1. Preheat your pan for 5-6 minutes before cooking. No oil or butter is needed for highly marbled beef.
2. When placing the steak on the pan, it should sizzle loudly. Sear for 3-5 minutes per side depending on the thickness of the cut.
3. Flip the steak and repeat the process.
4. Remove the steak from the pan when it reaches an internal temperature of around 120-125F. If you are unsure, use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
5. The steak will continue to cook while resting and can increase between 5-10 degrees during rest. Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
It is important to note that all stoves vary in temperature, so these are general recommendations. It is not recommended to cook Halal-certified Australian Wagyu beef above 135F.
When cooking this type of beef, it is best to use minimal seasonings as the meat itself is very flavorful. The marbling score can range from 1-12, with higher scores indicating more fat content. Some customers find a score of 11 or above too fatty.
If you are unsure about how to prepare your Halal-certified Australian Wagyu beef, consult with a professional chef or butcher who can provide additional guidance and advice.
