Genetically Modified Salmon

A genetically modified (GM) salmon is the first GM animal to be approved for human consumption.

20:34 20 November 2015

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved GM Atlantic salmon for human consumption. The so-called "Frankenfish" grows twice as fast as ordinary salmon and can be grown in fish tanks in warehouses on land.

 

The GM Atlantic salmon was invented by AquaBounty Technologies, a Massachusetts company.

 

“This announcement signals that such products can be produced safely in our environment and are considered likely to contribute to society's needs,” said Bruce Whitelaw, professor of animal biotechnology of the Roslin Institute at the University of Edinburgh.

 

However, organisations that oppose the decision said that the approval sets a dangerous precedent by introducing GM animals into the human food chain for the first time.

 

“There remain legitimate ecological concerns over the possible consequences if these GM salmon escape to the wild and reproduce, despite FDA assurances over containment and sterility, neither of which can be guaranteed,” said Joe Perry, former chair the GM panel of the European Food Safety Authority.

 

Meanwhile, the FDA provided an assurance the GM salmon is safe to eat.

 

“The FDA has thoroughly analysed and evaluated the data and information submitted by AquaBounty Technologies regarding AquAdvantage Salmon and determined that they have met the regulatory requirements for approval, including that food from the fish is safe to eat,” said Bernadette Dunham, director of the FDA’s centre for veterinary medicine.