The FDA removes restrictions on genetically modified salmon

FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb stressed that the genetic changes had been considered safe for the animal, safe to eat and would not have a "significant" impact on the environment. AquaBounty 's modifications use DNA from other fish to grow salmon more rapidly, giving rise to concerns about pollution. But they are also bred to be female and sterile, and theoretically eliminates the possibility that they will breed with wild salmon.

The salmon will take a while to reach the market if everything goes according to plan. Aquabounty chief Sylvia Wulf told AP that she expected certification for an Indiana growth facility in "weeks" and could receive eggs soon, but it would take about 1

8 months for the salmon to reach the target weight. [19659002] If that doesn't happen, it's not quite certain. An alliance of public interest, environment and pro-fishing groups is in the midst of sucking the FDA to beat the approval for safety reasons. Groups like the Center for Food Safety have argued that regulators have not properly assessed the ecological and health risks of the salmon and have pointed to problems with AquaBounty's environmental record. If these objections hold to court, the FDA and AquaBounty may return to the square.