Washington, D.C. (March 8, 2019) – The Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) released the following statement on the action taken today by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) which will allow AquaBounty Technologies, an American company, to commercialize its genetically engineered AquAdvantage® Salmon in the U.S. market.
“BIO applauds today’s announcement by FDA, and while long overdue, this milestone paves the way for future innovations that contribute to a more sustainable food supply for a growing world population and lessen the impact on our environment.
“Going forward, BIO will continue to work with FDA to support greater clarity in the regulatory process and an efficient, predictable pathway to product approval. By implementing a transparent, science-based and risk-appropriate regulatory path, the United States and American companies can lead the way in developing biology-driven solutions to society’s biggest challenges.”
The AquAdvantage® Salmon was developed by Massachusetts-based AquaBounty Technologies, a BIO member. It is genetically engineered to reach its market weight in half the time of conventionally raised salmon while using 25 percent less food, thus contributing to more sustainable aquaculture systems.
###
