Franken-Salmon on the Horizon

The FDA has said that they can find no valid scientific reason to ban the production of genetically modified AquAdvantage salmon, which is engineered (using Pacific Chinook salmon growth hormones) to grow twice as fast as ordinary fish. The FDA's finding clears one of the last remaining hurdles for GM salmon to be lawfully sold and eaten in the U.S. and may prompt European nations to follow suit. Supporters of the technology believe AquaBounty’s land-based fish farms will create easier, cheaper, more environmentally friendly salmon. Opponents, however, argue that “Frankenfish” marks the beginning of creating GM animals solely for human consumption, a development that deeply undermines animal welfare concerns. Additionally, GM salmon could escape into the wild, interbreed with wild fish and undermine the genetics of the endangered Atlantic salmon. The FDA is still accepting public comments before making a final decision next month.

E- The Environmental Magazine, 1/2/2013