It found that the salmon raised by AuaBounty is safe to eat and that the modification of it doesn’t change its nutritional value. At least 35 other species of genetically engineered fish, along with chickens, pigs and cows, are now under development, and the FDA’s decision on this genetically engineered salmon application sets a precedent for other genetically engineered fish and animals. It also said that the salmon aren’t negatively affected by the process.
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The group’s AquAdvantage Salmon is an Atlantic salmon enhanced to reach market size in less time than a conventionally farmed fish. However, Alaska will require labeling because of its status as a top wild salmon producer.
“There’s no place on our dinner plates for genetically engineered fish”. More than 60 grocery store chains representing more than 9000 stores across the US have made commitments to not sell the GMO salmon, including Safeway, Kroger, Target, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, Aldi and many others.
Wenonah Hauter of EcoWatch added that there was “insufficient safety testing” done.
In a news release, the FDA declared that the Massachusetts-based biotech firm AquaBounty Technologies had met the requirements for approval and that the fish is safe to eat. The FDA will require all the GMO salmon to be sterile females to avoid accidental breeding with wild salmon.
AquaBounty, meanwhile, is happy about the approval.
Stotish stated: “AquAdvantage Salmon is a game-changer that brings healthy and nutritious food to consumers in an environmentally responsible manner without damaging the ocean and other marine habitats”.
A few scientists are also supportive of the project.
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It took about 20 years for the developing company AquaBounty Technologies to get FDA approval, which was around the start of America’s relationship with GMOs.
