Toriyama, a Japan-based producer of Japanese Wagyu beef, signed an agreement with Awano Food Group, a Singapore-based supplier of meat and seafood, and JUST, San Francisco, to create, distribute and sell what is said to be some of the world's most revered meat in a groundbreaking new way.

Through this first-of-its-kind partnership, JUST will develop cultured Wagyu beef from Toriyama cells, while Awano, Toriyama's export agent, will market and sell the meat. Toriyama's cattle is raised through genetic/bloodline mapping at a high altitude and in impeccable living conditions to ensure consistency.

"For decades, the Toriyama family has paired science and skill with a passion for achieving a superior flavor for all the meat they produce. Precious few have had the chance to experience umami Wagyu, and we hope this partnership allows more restaurants to share Toriyama beef and its story in a new, exciting way," says Josh Tetrick, co-founder and CEO of JUST. "I’m thankful that Toriyama has entrusted our team with this project, and we are fortunate to have a highly regarded distribution partner like Awano to help us bring this special meat to

"Wagyu is a symbolic ingredient in Japanese culinary culture, and we are proud to honor this tradition for more than 30 years. Our embrace of science and technology has allowed us to produce unparalleled umami beef, and the kind of technology developed by JUST has the potential to bring about a fascinating new era of more sustainable meat production," says Makoto Toriyama, chief executive officer of Toriyama.

"As a forward-thinking purveyor of high-end meats, Awano has gained ground in some of the fastest animal protein consumption markets in the world. In order for us to satisfy the needs of our customers for generations to come and manage environmental and animal welfare implications of increased meat production and consumption, partnerships like this one will be critical," adds Rod Martin, chief operating officer of Awano.