Genetically modified fish are about to become more of a practical reality in the US. The Food and Drug Administration has lifted an import alert on AquaBounty’s genetically modified AquAdvantage salmon eggs, allowing the fish to reach the US over three years after they received initial approval.
Congress told the FDA in 2016 to block modified salmon until it issued labeling guidelines, and the Administration believes Congress’ newly-enacted National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard meets that criteria.FDA
Commissioner Scott Gottlieb stressed that the genetic changes had been deemed safe for the animal, safe to eat and wouldn’t have a “significant” impact on the environment. AquaBounty’s modifications use DNA from other fish to grow salmon at a faster rate, raising concerns about contamination. However, they’re also bred to be female and sterile, theoretically eliminating he possibility that they’ll breed with wild salmon.
