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US: FDA to rule on genetically modified salmon |
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Friday, 06 August 2010 08:56 |
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After a decade of seeking approval for its genetically modified salmon, AquaBounty, a biotechnology company based in the United States, may be getting closer to its goal, reports the New York Times. The fish, an Atlantic salmon, differs from its non modified counterparts in that it grows faster, reaching marketable size in 16 to 18 months rather than three years. The company says that the fish will not grow bigger than conventional fish. The Food and Drug Administration analyses whether the salmon are safe to eat, harmless to the environment, and no different nutritionally from regular salmon. Concerns that the fish may escape and compete with wild fish are addressed, according to the company by growing the fish on land in contained facilities that reduce the risk of escapes. In addition all the fish will be sterile females that are unable to reproduce. In the documentation the company has submitted to the FDA it shows that the nutritional profile of the fish in terms of proteins, fats, minerals, and other elements is identical to conventional salmon. AquaBounty will not farm the fish itself, but only supply the eggs. Before approving the fish the FDA will hold a public meeting which will usually allow some time for public comments.
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