FDA on genetically-modified salmon: safe to eat, no labels needed

The decision marked the first time a genetically modified animal has been cleared for human consumption, according to Just Label It, which advocates for the labeling of genetically engineered/G.M.O. foods. Created by AquaBounty Technologies, the salmons’ genes are modified to allow the fish to reach market size far faster than normal farm-raised salmon.

The approval of the AquAdvantage salmon has been in the works for years, which the FDA says is because this is the first approval of its kind. “Because the data and information evaluated show that AquAdvantage Salmon is not materially different from other Atlantic salmon, the FDA has determined that no additional labeling of food from AquaAdvantage Salmon is required”, the FDA says on its website. ABC News toured the company’s Panama facility in 2012, where a typical Atlantic salmon is dwarfed by the genetically altered fish.

AquaBounty, a US company, has already from environmental officials in Canada to harvest GM Atlantic salmon fish eggs at its facilities in Island. “Finally, the AquAdvantage Salmon are reproductively sterile so that even in the highly unlikely event of an escape, they would be unable to interbreed or establish populations in the wild”, the FDA stated. The salmon is produced by AquaBounty Technologies.

“This unfortunate, historic decision disregards the vast majority of consumers, many independent scientists, numerous members of Congress and salmon growers around the world, who have voiced strong opposition”, Food & Water Watch, a Washington D.C.-based consumer rights group, said in a statement, according to Al Jazeera.

To meet its responsibility as to labeling and because the FDA recognizes a few consumers are interested in knowing whether food ingredients are derived from GE sources, the agency is issuing two guidance documents that explain how food companies that want to voluntarily label their products can provide this information to consumers.

The answer depends on whether they believe the scientific consensus on GMO foods, which is that they are safe to eat.

“Although the FDA has approved the sale of GM salmon, Costco has not sold and does not intend to sell GM salmon at this time”, the warehouse store chain said in a statement Friday. Also, the salmon’s modified DNA needed to be safe for the fish, and there must be confirmation of its fast growth. The FDA says that there are, “multiple and redundant measures being taken to contain the fish and prevent their escape and establishment in the environment”.

“If they’re going to buy salmon, they should buy wild salmon”.