Forum Meat Company, the leading wholesaler and processor of high-end meat products, recently announced its exclusive partnership with First Class Imports, making it the sole purveyor of imported Japanese A5 Wagyu beef in Texas.

First Class Imports works closely with JETRO to educate about Japanese Wagyu beef and collaborates with large exporters, such as Wagyu Master and others, to bring premium Japanese Wagyu to the Texas market. The collaboration with Forum Meat Company brings one of the world's most luxurious and sought-after meats to discerning consumers across the state.

Japanese A5 Wagyu beef is renowned globally for its intricate marbling, known as sashi, which is unique to the DNA of Japanese Black cattle. This intramuscular fat marbling contributes to the rich flavor and tenderness that sets Wagyu apart from other beef. When cooked, Wagyu beef releases a distinctive, enticing umami-rich aroma, particularly when heated to 80°C (176°F). This aroma enhances the overall dining experience, making it a prized selection for chefs and connoisseurs alike.

The high level of marbling in Wagyu beef also provides a velvety mouthfeel, creating a luxurious eating experience that is highly sought after by chefs and meat connoisseurs. Additionally, Wagyu beef contains a high concentration of oleic acid, an omega-9 monounsaturated fatty acid known to help regulate LDL cholesterol and may contribute to heart health by preventing arteriosclerosis.

“The unique characteristics of Wagyu, such as its marbling, aroma, and tenderness, are hard to replicate outside of Japan, making it an exclusive, premium product in the global market,” said Forum Meat Company Owner and Manager Todd Winn. “Texas consumers will soon be able to enjoy this exquisite meat at their favorite local restaurants, hotels and resorts.”

As a wholesaler and processor offering high-end natural and organic meat products, Forum Meat Company collaborates with chefs, producers, and vendors to create superior dining experiences with their restaurant, hotel, country club, and other fine dining clients.

Forum’s owners, Walter Wilkerson and Todd Winn, have more than 50 years of experience in the industry. Forum Meats continually expands its relationships to include a wide variety of quality purveyors around the world to ensure they offer first-class products and services. The company’s mission is to provide a unique variety of protein options to its clients with an emphasis on product quality, food safety, and exceptional service.

Forum Meat Company is a local and independent meat company located in Ennis, Texas, which allows for easy access to the major Texas restaurant markets.