As reported by
Grub Street, the FDA has just approved a new type of genetically modified salmon, created by biotech company
AquaBounty. This marks the first time the FDA has approved a genetically modified animal for human consumption. The fish is an Atlantic Salmon that grows twice as fast as conventional salmon, while needing only
75% as much feed. The AquaAdvantage, as the salmon is called, is made from the genetic material of Atlantic Salmon, Pacific-Chinook salmon, and the
ocean pout.
As Grub Street notes, many are opposed to the idea of genetically modified animals, or GMO foods in general.
Whole Foods and Trader Joe's have even been vocal opponents of this particular salmon. There are two main concerns that critics have regarding these types of genetic modification endeavors. The first is that, controversially, these products will not be labeled as "GMO", nor ended will they have any label setting it apart from standard seafood. From AquaBounty CEO Ron Stotish,
"When you're the first and only, labeling is a dangerous decision. We'd like to label it as a premium product, but we'll probably introduce it as 'Atlantic Salmon'".
Critics are also concerned over what could happen should these genetically modified salmon escape into natural waterways and either disrupt natural ecosystems, or breed with wild fish (the GMO Salmon are bred and raised in captivity in Canada and Panama). AquaBounty says that any fish not used for breeding are sterilized.
What do you think, are the benefits of a faster growing, less hungry fish appealing, or are genetically modified animals just too science fiction to be tasty? Let us know what you think via Twitter, Facebook and Google+.
Source:
Grub Street
Tablebases.com
