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BIO Applauds FDA Approval of GE Salmon, Support for Science-based Food Policy

Source: Biotechnology Industry Organization

After conducting a thorough and rigorous regulatory review, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the genetically engineered (GE) AquAdvantage® Salmon for commercial marketing.

In response to FDA’s approval of AquAdvantage® Salmon, Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) President and CEO Jim Greenwood issued the following statement:

“BIO commends the FDA for taking this very important step in the right direction for the advancement of animal biotechnology innovation. The development of AquAdvantage® Salmon is based on more than two decades of scientific research, making it the most studied line of Atlantic salmon. The agency found that AquAdvantage® Salmon is not materially different from other Atlantic salmon and is just as safe and nutritious as non-GE salmon. AquAdvantage® Salmon can be grown in contained facilities close to population centers, thus bringing fresh seafood to consumers with a reduced environmental impact.

“Animal biotechnology can improve livestock to require less feed, produce more protein, and reduce environmental impact, while also providing for enhanced animal health and welfare. Other animal biotechnology applications can improve human health through faster discovery of cures, improved medicines and life-saving tissues and organs.

“The rigorous FDA approval process assures the safety and efficacy of genetically engineered animal products. BIO looks forward to the FDA continuing to encourage innovation while assuring safety through a science-based, risk-appropriate regulatory path that recognizes the safety and benefits that the field of animal biotechnology can bring to the global population.”

FDA Rejects Mandatory Labeling of GE Foods

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has officially announced that it has rejected petitions from public interest groups calling for mandatory labeling of foods produced with genetic engineering.

In response, Brian Baenig, Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO)’s Executive Vice President of Food and Agriculture, issued the following statement:

“BIO appreciates the several actions taken by the FDA this week which highlight the Administration’s support for common sense, science-based food policy. Notably the FDA reaffirmed its longstanding policy that foods containing biotech ingredients are compositionally the same and as safe and nutritious as conventionally produced foods; thus distinguishing them with a mandatory label would mislead consumers by falsely implying they are different.

“The FDA’s actions are a solid step forward for consumers. But we must do more, which is why BIO and our value chain partners are working with the United States Congress to cement a national voluntary labeling approach and ensure consistency in labeling across the states. Again, we applaud the Administration’s stand for commonsense and science.”

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