What is Black Angus Beef?

And Other Common Black Angus Questions

Have a question about 1855 Black Angus Beef or want to learn more about Black Angus Beef? Find answers in the questions below or contact us to learn more!

Questions about Black Angus

What is Black Angus Beef?

Black Angus Beef is sourced from Angus cattle, which are known for naturally abundant marbling resulting in tender, flavorful beef. “Black Angus” refers to cattle whose hides are predominantly black and are best known for their consistency and reliable quality brought on by Angus genetics. Angus cattle are the most common breed of beef cattle in the United States.

Why is Black Angus Beef high quality?

Due to its abundant marbling, or intramuscular fat, Black Angus Beef provides buttery, juicy flavors and is remarkably tender. These qualities mean Black Angus Beef often scores as Prime or Choice on the USDA Beef Quality Grades scale, which are the two highest beef quality grades set by the USDA. In short, Black Angus Beef provides a flavorful, memorable eating experience that stands out among the rest.

Where does Black Angus Beef come from?

Black Angus cattle are bred down from Aberdeen Angus cattle, originating from the Aberdeenshire region in Scotland. Today, Black Angus cattle are raised throughout the United States. 1855 Black Angus cattle are raised in the Great Plains region of the United States, which provides rich grains for the cattle and results in flavorful, highly marbled beef.

What is the difference between Angus and Black Angus Beef?

Black Angus Beef is a type of Angus beef and refers to cattle with hides that are primarily black in color. Some Angus cattle have red or brown hides. Angus cattle generally produce highly marbled, flavorful beef, but Black Angus products are best known for their consistency and reliable quality.

How is Black Angus different from Wagyu beef?

Black Angus and Wagyu are unique breeds of cattle and produce two different products. Both types of cattle produce exceptionally marbled, premium beef, but their regions of origin and raising practices differ. Black Angus cattle originate from the Angus breed, originally from Scotland, while Wagyu is a breed originating in Japan. To be considered Wagyu, cattle must come from a specific region in Japan and have genetics 100% from Wagyu cattle.

There are some American producers of Wagyu beef. American Wagyu beef is sourced from cattle with 50% Wagyu and 50% Angus genetics. Each breed of cattle produces beef with unique qualities.

What’s the difference between Black Angus and Hereford beef?

Hereford is another breed of cattle distinct from Black Angus. Hereford cattle originate in Herefordshire, England. They are known for their hardiness and are frequently cross-bred with Angus cattle to produce tender, flavorful beef.

Where can I buy Black Angus Beef?

There are numerous retailers and restaurants at which you can buy Black Angus Beef. Find 1855 Black Angus Beef near you.

What recipes are best for Black Angus Beef?

Use Black Angus Beef to refine any dish, from classic steak dinners to brisket to gourmet burgers. Browse all 1855 Black Angus Beef recipes.

Questions about Grading

Is Black Angus Beef USDA Prime?

Like all beef products, Black Angus Beef varies in USDA grade. 1855 Beef exclusively offers USDA Prime and upper 2/3 Choice Black Angus Beef to deliver only the highest quality cuts.

What is USDA Prime beef?

The USDA has established a beef quality grading system that takes into account several factors, including marbling (intramuscular fat, which produces juiciness and flavor), age of cattle at harvest, yield, and more. USDA Prime beef features abundant marbling and is usually served in fine dining establishments, hotels, and select retail locations.

What is Upper 2/3 Choice beef?

Like USDA Prime beef, upper 2/3 Choice is a premium product known for superior quality and marbling. USDA beef quality grades are divided into three designations: high, average, and low based on marbling and other quality indicators. Upper 2/3 Choice beef includes USDA Choice beef from the top two divisions (average and high), excluding lower amounts of marbling and resulting in a tender, juicier bite.

 

What is the difference between Choice and Prime beef?

Choice and Prime beef feature different amounts of marbling. USDA Choice beef is divided into three categories: small, modest, and moderate marbling. USDA Prime includes slightly abundant or moderately abundant marbling. Learn more about USDA beef quality grades.

Questions about 1855 Black Angus Beef

How is 1855 different from other Black Angus Beef brands?

1855 gives unwavering attention to every step of the process, from carefully choosing the family ranchers that raise our cattle to selecting only the best cuts of the final product. We only source cattle from the grain-rich areas of the Great Plains, which is known for producing flavorful beef from the richest Black Angus cattle available and offer products only in USDA Prime and Upper 2/3 Choice. Learn more.

What is 1855 Black Angus Beef doing to improve sustainability?

JBS Foods, which includes 1855 Black Angus Beef, has pledged to work toward net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. We believe agriculture can be part of the climate solution and a sustainable food system is essential. On the path to net zero, we’ve set the following goals:

  • Invest more than $1 billion in upgrading facilities and equipment by 2030
  • Invest $100 million in research and development projects by 2030
  • Reduce emissions intensity in all our facilities by 30% by 2030
  • Use 100% renewable electricity by 2040
  • Tie environmental performance to executive compensation to ensure accountability

Learn more here.

Can restaurants wholesale 1855 Black Angus Beef?

Yes, restaurants can wholesale 1855 Black Angus Beef. Contact us for details.

Can supermarkets wholesale 1855 Black Angus Beef?

Yes, supermarkets can wholesale 1855 Black Angus Beef. Contact us for details.

What are the benefits of carrying 1855 Black Angus Beef for retailers and foodservice?

1855 has a commitment to producing the finest Black Angus Beef possible and helping retailers and restaurants provide memorable meals to the most discerning customers. We offer only USDA Prime and Upper 2/3 Choice Black Angus Beef to ensure unforgettable eating experiences for your customers.

1855 provides uniform tray coverage and consistent presentation, delivering superior yield and helping improve the efficiency of your operation. Learn more about the benefits of Black Angus Beef for retailers or restaurants and chefs.

How can I carry 1855 Black Angus Beef in my store or restaurant?

1855 products are available through distributors across the United States and in some international markets. Contact us to carry Black Angus Beef for retail or foodservice.