Japan’s scientists are looking for solutions. Kobe beef. Matsuzaka beef. Omi beef. All are variants of Japan’s Wagyu beef, renowned the world over for its exquisite marbling and succulent texture.

Japan’s three famous kinds of wagyu are Kobe beef, Matsuzaka beef in Mie Prefecture and Omi beef in Shiga Prefecture. Children attending 380 schools in 19 cities and towns in Shiga Prefecture ...