B3 Free CHS Free CL16 Free FL11 Free TENDERNESS 10 SCD AA

SCD Stearoyl CoA Desaturase

SCD typing in Wagyu is designed to aid in the selection of cattle with the inheritable genetic coding that produces a superior fat composition. Stearoyl CoA Desaturase (SCD) is the protein that is encoded by the SCD gene and is the enzyme that changes saturated fatty acid (Stearic Acid) that generates a harder fat with a higher melting point into an unsaturated fatty acid (Oleic Acid) that results in a softer fat with a lower melting point. Not only is unsaturated fat healthier; it is more desirable and pleasing to the palate. DNA sequences in Wagyu cattle are placed into two classifications of amino acids: A (Alanine) and V (Valine). Wagyu carry a genetic mutation that changes Valine to Alanine: the presence of A type amino acids have a lower melting point of fat. The preferred SCD designation is AA.

18% of Wagyu are designated as AA, 74% VA, and 8% VV.