Today marks the second day of an FDA hearing with scientists and experts who are presenting arguments for and against the approval of genetically engineered salmon in our food system. While the FDA appears to be leaning toward claiming genetically engineered salmon is safe, there are a number of strong opinions swimming around on both sides.
Photo credit: University of Washington
If approved, this salmon would be the first “transgenic” animal to be allowed in our food system, but it would not be the first genetically engineered food to wind up on our plate. In fact, genetically engineered plant-based foods (wheat, soybeans, canola) have been around in the U.S. for many years. Millions of people safely consume genetically modified foods every day. So what’s the big fuss about salmon?
Well, according to about 30 animal welfare, consumer, environmental and fisheries groups, including the Sierra Club and Food & Water Watch, these salmon pose both an environmental threat and a human health threat. They argue the fish could potentially escape into the ocean and wipe out wild salmon populations, as the genetically engineered salmon would be physically larger than the wild salmon, but not necessarily equipped to withstand life outside of captivity for the long term. They also warn that transgenic fish could introduce unknown allergens into our food supply. This is problematic considering fish is already in the top five for human allergies.
Aquabounty, the company who wishes to carry out the production of this genetically engineered salmon, and their supporters, argue that this salmon would feed more people and provide economic benefit to farmers by growing faster and thus allowing farmers to sell the salmon more frequently. They also argue that because these fish would be sterile, they would not serve as a threat to native populations if they escaped from their confined farms.
We have seen a number of negative and positive outcomes through the introduction of biotechnology into our food system. Perhaps this is one such case that we can all stand to benefit without encountering negative consequences later on. Let’s just hope extensive research is presented so the FDA makes the best decision for the long term.
Would you still eat salmon if this ends up getting approved, knowing that you could potentially be eating genetically engineered fish? Let us know what you think in the comments.
