The FDA has just recently approved the sale and consumption of GMO salmon, despite public outrage and insufficient testing. This is the first ever genetically modified animal to be allowed onto our dinner plates. This GMO salmon, otherwise known as “frankenfish”, poses many risks to consumers and an already threatened salmon population. This will be the first ever GMO animal to enter into our food system.

The frankenfish can grow twice as fast as its wild counterpart and was designed by AquaBounty Technologies. Because the FDA and AquaBounty have failed to perform sufficient studies on the fish, the consumption of this genetically modified creature could have extreme health risks. The review process by the FDA failed and lacked comprehensive analysis that would examine how this salmon will impact consumer health and consumer futures. Andrew Kimbrell, the executive director of Center for Food Safety, says that, “this decision sets a dangerous precedent, lowering the standards of safety in this country.”

 

The FDA has only considered two studies, both submitted by AquaBounty. One of the studies was so poorly conducted that the FDA even admitted it demonstrated “no reliable conclusions.” The studies show a dramatic increase of hormone levels and allergens in these GMO salmon.

It is scary to think about what affect these hormone levels and allergens could have on their consumers. The salmon will be produced in Panama, and brought to the United States for consumption.

Growth hormones are injected into fertilized eggs to create a sterile salmon that will grow four times larger and four times faster. Researchers at Purdue University have published a paper citing the possible threats and environmental risks associated with GMO salmon.

This fish could have a huge negative impact on other fish populations if and when it ever escapes into the wild. The eventuality of this happening is considered a certainty, given past evidence of other farmed salmon populations.

What’s the worst part? This GMO salmon will not be labeled. Scott Faber, executive director of pro-GMO labeling group Just Label It, thinks this is an outrage. “The decision to approve GMO salmon without a mandatory disclosure is yet another example of how FDA’s outdated policy keeps consumers in the dark.”

The FDA decision is a major victory for genetically modified foods, and a huge loss for the health of our nation. This will be a huge experiment and battle that will take place right on our dinner plates. It is our duty to bring light to this unfair situation and demand that GMO salmon be labeled.