Yak Meat Facts

Yak: The Ideal Meat

When people hear the word “yak” – they usually think of big, hairy, horny creatures that live in the mountains somewhere far away. However, there is so much more to yaks than their stereotypes. Yaks are actually one of the most efficient, hygienic, and loyal creatures in the world. In fact, yaks have been used for transportation, meat, and clothing for more than 5,000 years! Below are some answers to common questions which explain why many people consider yaks to be the best domesticated animal.

Yaks come from the Himalayas, Tibetan Plateau, Mongolia, and Russia. They are closely related to bison but have larger hearts and lungs which makes them incredibly powerful. Yaks are pack animals, typically live around twenty years, and weigh about 1,500 pounds on average. 

Yaks are herbivores. They’re experts at foraging and can extract huge amounts of nutrients from small quantities of food. When they graze, they do not uproot foliage so their environments aren’t left damaged. Yak eat a third of what a cow eats annually, thus making them significantly more environmentally friendly. 

Yes! Yaks are friendly but they’re also timid. They act tough and sometimes charge if they feel threatened but they typically try to avoid conflict. They’re extremely protective of their young. 

Not at all. Yaks have unique digestive systems which produce manure with almost no detectable odors. Their wool naturally resists odors and since they roam on our 2,000+ acres of pristine pasture, they’re not as susceptible to the same bacteria as caged creatures.

Yak meat is hearty, rich, and robust in flavor. Many people find yak meat similar to buffalo or bison. Yak meat absorbs seasonings and spices very well. It can be eaten alone or used as an ingredient in a wide variety of other dishes.

Absolutely. Yak meat is exceptionally lean with little fat. It is low in cholesterol and saturated fat but higher in Omega 3 than any other meat. Moreover, it has double the protein of most household meats.

Yes and no. Yak meat is not low quality and therefore it is not the least expensive. It’s most popular among people who are health conscious, have dietary restrictions or are environmentally friendly. Compared to other local and natural meats, yak meat is similar in price. The slightly higher cost comes from the personalized attention which every yak receives. At HK Yak Ranch, each yak is meticulously groomed with the finest feed, medical attention, and land resources.