The federal agency of the United States Department of Health and Human Services - Food and Drug Administration (FDA), says AquAdvantage salmon (genetically modified Atlantic salmon developed by AquaBounty Technologies) are safe for human consumption. The FDA claimed that it could help fulfill the growing food demands of the world and can relieve the pressure on fisheries.
But critics have named the AquaAdvantage salmon as "Frankenfish" and for a duration of five years, critics have successfully pressured the Food and Drug Administration to withhold their approval on this.
However, the Food and Drug Administration finally weighed in on the side of sound science to its credit.
Meanwhile, wildlife groups and consumers have raised all sorts of hysterical alarms about AquAdvantage salmon, that the fish will be the starting point of human allergies, and that it may break free into the oceans and damage the natural salmon population. But the FDA treats those concerns as unworthy, as not supported by evidence.
The FDA has made a firm decision that the fish was safe to eat, and that the genetic alteration to increase the activity in the growth of the fish are not harmful to either the fish or the individuals who consume it.
As stated by the FDA testimony, the AquaAdvantage salmon's taste, texture and appearance, is not different when compared to wild salmon - for the reason that there are no material differences between wild and modified salmon, and there are no special labeling that will be required by the agency.
The executive director of the Maine Aquaculture Association - Sebastian Belle, stated, that the salmon farming industry has long been preventing the introduction of genetically engineered Atlantic salmon. "The position of the Maine Aquaculture Association and ISFA (the International Salmon Farmers Association) has not changed at all."
However, with the approval of the FDA being settled, opponents are becoming retailers, urging them to keep the modified salmon off their shelves. Fortunately, some have acted accordingly.
