ABOUT N34 | N34 Garnet Beef

In global beef markets, lean beef is the most popular commodity. Growing in prominence on the beef market is shimofuri beef, typically Japanese black cattle. Now, garnet beef is a third category of beef emerging from Japan. At the top of this category is the luxury brand N34, beef from cattle raised is the vast nature of Hokkaido, Japan's most expansive agricultural region.
N34 represents a new standard in consumer preferences for flavor and texture, and rewrites the narrative on what think we know about beef.

N represents not only the producer Nobels, but also expresses the themes of NEW, NEXT, NATURAL, and NICE.
34 refers to 34 months. N34 beef is produced over a long nurturing period of at least 34 months and up to 40 months.
Garnet refers to this category of beef and expresses the similarities between the rich red color of N34 beef and the color of a garnet gemstone.

8 Conditions for Strict Grading

Garnet beef is a new category that is characterized by a rich, brilliant red color that resembles a fine wine. As red wine matures, its color transitions from a light ruby hue to the deep color of garnet. At the top of this category is N34.
N34 boasts a mouth-watering marbling profile combined with the robust flavor of firm yet tender red meat. The grain of the red meat is so soft it almost peels away layer by layer.
N34 is new option in beef selection that stands out for its unique characteristics. Beef boasting the brand name N34 is limited to pre-cut, pre-distribution carcasses that are subjected to a strict grading process and that passes our proprietary standards. Our 8 stage grading process represents our promise to provide stable, high-quality beef and customer satisfaction.

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Beef Color Standard1

Score No.4 or No.5

Based on the Beef Color Standard, one of the evaluation standards used for beef carcass transactions in Japan, N34 is equivalent to No. 4 or No. 5. Both these ranks are classified as being the highest grade for meat color and gloss; a rich, beautiful red color befitting the category name garnet beef.

Total Nurturing Period2

At least 34 months, up to 40 months

The age in months since birth, i.e., the total nurturing period, is at least 34 months and up to 40 months. Thus is longer than the average nurturing period typically used for beef cattle in the United States or Japan. We follow a nurturing period that allows a natural growth cycle. Furthermore, we set a feeding period that promotes beef maturation.

Cattle Breeds3

Hybrid cows

The cattle we raise are hybrid of the Japanese black cattle, Japan's world-famous beef cattle, and a Holstein dairy cattle (F1). We further limit our beef cattle to cows only (female)*. This results in the superior meat quality of the Japanese black cattle and the vast meat quantities of the Holstein. The beef from the female is tender yet provides an ideal firmness.
*Beef shipped to USA is from unbred heifers of age 34 months up to 40 months.

Beef Marbling Standard4

Score No.3 or No.4

Based on the Beef Marbling Standard, which indicates fat content and is one of the evaluation standards used for beef carcass transactions in Japan, N34 is equivalent to No. 3 or No. 4. These two ranks are classified as being general levels but having a low melting point and producing a favorable aroma. N34 boasts the rich flavor of beef. This combination of the ideal marbling and healthy volume of lean beef results in a rare culinary harmony.

Source: Beef Marbling Standard for beef carcass transactions outlined by the Japan Meat Grading Association. 1: No. 1 indicates no marbling detected. 2: No. 2 indicates not fulfilling standards for No. 3.

Fineness of Marbling5

Fine marbling

In addition to the absolute volume of marbling (fat) in red meat, the level of marbling (fineness) is also a major evaluation point. Large marbling lines alone are not enough. It is the presence of fine white, shimmering lines of fat just a few millimeters in thickness throughout the red meat that creates the mouth-watering, tender texture and delicious aroma.

Water Content6

Low

N34 has a relatively low water content. During the fattening period, when cattle are fed to increase volume prior to distribution, a lower water content causes the marbling of fat within the lean beef. This also causes the condensation of umami flavors within the meat. Beef with a lower water content adds even greater depth to rich, wonderful flavors.

Muscle Fibers7

Fineness

Our hybrid cattle are unique for their firm yet tender lean meat with a delicate grain. We select only beef of the finest texture and beautiful grain.

Cuts8

Chuck eye roll, spencer roll, strip loin, tenderloin, top sirloin butt, coulotte, top blade, chuck rib

Limited to 8 of the highest-quality cuts. Even meat from the same cattle will vary greatly in texture and flavor depending on the location. Each cut allows you to enjoy a distinct and unique taste.

Raised in the Rejuvenating Natural Environment of Hokkaido

Located in the northernmost area of a peninsula spanning some 3,000 kilometers south to north you will find Hokkaido. Hokkaido's development picked up speed in the 19th century during the Meiji Era. In Hokkaido, the city of Tokachi boasts the prefecture's largest agricultural land area. Blessed with fertile soil, Tokachi produce is vast and various, including wheat, potatoes, beets, and beans.
Tokachi is a cold-climate region where, even in the summertime, early morning and nighttime temperatures differ vastly from afternoon weather. Winter brings with it a silencing chill that seems to bring life to a standstill.
But nature is delicate and beautiful. Tokachi cattle are raised outdoors, embraced by the rejuvenating powers of nature, blessed with the strength to overcome a harsh winter environment.

Pride in our Brand Name

N34 beef is defined by a strict grading process. What makes this advanced yet difficult quality management possible? The Nobels Group boasts production knowhow that is unmatched throughout the world. This knowledge and experience is combined with our never-ending desire to accept new challenges.
The N34 brand name epitomizes the Nobels Group. We take extreme pride in delivering our own brand to our customers. The cattle used for N34 are raised over more than two years of careful nurturing by experts in Hokkaido. Only the select few and only select cuts are allowed to carry the N34 brand name.

The 8 Cuts of N34

A new option in beef selection. A color like a garnet gemstone or a luxurious mature wine.
N34 boasts mouth-watering marbling combined with the rich flavor of firm yet tender red meat. These characteristics combine to provide an ideal texture that creates a perfect bite every time. N34 is popular as a luxury ingredient used by exclusive French, Italian, Chinese, and Japanese restaurants.
Blocks of 8 carefully selected cuts.