Kobe Beef Nutrition Facts

Kobe beef, originating in Kobe, Japan, refers to meat from Wagyu cattle. "Wa" means things that are Japanese and "gyu" means cattle or beef. One reason Kobe beef is so desired is because of the high level of marbling in the meat. Kobe beef can be found in American restaurants, but Kobe-style beef is also available in the U.S. Kobe-style beef comes from Wagyu cattle cross-bred with Angus cattle and was created to meet consumer demand.

Menus may not specify where the Kobe beef originated, but both Japanese Wagyu and American-style Kobe beef are similar in nutrient content. According to My Fitness Pal, a 4-ounce serving of Japanese Kobe beef is approximately 280 calories, compared to 330 calories in a 4-ounce serving of American Kobe-style beef.

Kobe beef, like many meats, is a good source of protein, providing 22 grams per Wagyu serving and 18 grams per American-style serving. Protein performs many important functions in your body, such as repairing and building tissues, and is found in every cell.

Iron is an essential mineral because your body uses it to make the part of red blood cells that carries oxygen to your tissues, called hemoglobin. Thus, eating foods rich in iron such as Kobe beef is important. Each serving of Kobe beef provides approximately 10 percent of the recommend daily value of iron, regardless of the type.

Kobe beef contains more fat than other cuts of beef. Wagyu Kobe beef contains 20 grams of fat and 8 grams saturated fat. American Kobe beef contains 28 grams of fat, 11 grams saturated fat and 1.5 grams trans fat per serving. But in moderation, this beef can fit into your healthy diet. In fact, your body needs some fat to protect organs, insulate your body and provide energy for exercise.

There is a modest amount of sodium naturally in Kobe beef. Wagyu Kobe beef contains approximately 60 grams of sodium while American Kobe beef contains 75. Although some people are salt-sensitive and need to watch their sodium intake, your body does require some sodium. In fact, sodium helps maintain fluid balance, plays a role in cooling your body when you sweat and helps transmit nerve impulses.