Transgenic Salmon: Science, Politics, and Flawed Policy

摘要

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2012 issued a draft Environmental Assessment that could open the door for transgenic salmon to be sold in the United States for direct human consumption as food. This would be the first genetically engineered animal to enter the market, a precedent-setting action that could lead to adoption of genetic engineering in other animals. The FDA is well suited to evaluate food safety concerns but less well equipped to address complex social and environmental issues associated with the introduction of what is essentially an exotic species into aquatic environments. The FDA was given responsibility for regulating genetically engineered animals through a Coordinated Framework for the Regulation of Biotechnology established in 1986 and updated in 1992. Policy recommendations include revamping of this framework and the conduct of a full Environmental Impact Statement before issuing a permit for this transgenic fish.