Placeholder Banner

BIO Disappointed in Approps Action to Label GE Salmon

May 19, 2016

Senate Ag Committee Efforts Will Better Address Transparency

Washington, D.C. (May 19, 2016) – During markup of the FY17 Agriculture Appropriations Bill, the Senate Appropriations Committee approved today by voice vote an amendment to mandate the identification of genetically engineered salmon as “genetically engineered” or “GE” in the marketplace. 

Brian Baenig, Executive Vice President, Food and Agriculture for the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), issued the following statement in response:

“BIO is disappointed that the Senate Appropriations Committee has adopted an amendment to require special identification for genetically engineered salmon.

“BIO is opposed to requiring an FDA-sanctioned label for this particular salmon product, and for all foods produced through biotechnology, simply because they were produced through biotechnology. The FDA has repeatedly reinforced its view that biotech foods, including salmon, are as safe to eat as conventionally produced foods, and do not require a special label.

“In a letter sent to Senate Appropriations leadership this week, BIO President and CEO Jim Greenwood points to GMO disclosure and transparency efforts already underway in the Senate Agriculture Committee. 

“As we understand it, the approach under consideration by that committee would apply to foods produced through biotechnology – such as GE salmon – and would provide information to consumers through a marketing disclosure mechanism, and not via a required label that would be perceived as a safety warning and thus would mislead consumers.”

Discover More
WASHINGTON, D.C. – John F. Crowley, President and CEO of the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), released the following statement on passage of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA):“The OBBBA contains important bipartisan provisions…
Annual award honors governors for their leadership and commitment to strengthening biotechnology in their state BOSTON (June 17, 2025) – Today, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) named Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey…
Industry veteran takes the helm as Dr. Ted Love concludes two-year term marked by strategic growth and transition BOSTON (June 16, 2025) – Today, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) announced that Fritz Bittenbender,…