Is Wild Caught Salmon Genetically Modified?

Salmon is one of the most popular fish consumed around the world It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and is an excellent source of high-quality protein Salmon can be either wild caught or farmed, There has been some confusion around whether wild caught salmon is genetically modified,

What is Genetic Modification?

Genetic modification (GM), also known as genetic engineering, is the process of altering the genetic makeup of an organism by introducing foreign genes. This technology allows scientists to create organisms with specific desired traits very quickly compared to traditional breeding techniques.

Some common genetically modified crops include corn, soybeans, canola, papaya, zucchini, and cotton. GM technology has also been used to create genetically engineered animals, like salmon and pigs.

Is Wild Salmon Genetically Modified?

No, wild salmon is not genetically modified Genetic modification of animals is currently limited to farmed salmon and research animals like mice There are no commercially available genetically engineered animals besides farmed salmon.

All wild salmon species including sockeye, coho, chinook, pink, and chum salmon are naturally occurring and have not been genetically altered. Wild salmon mate naturally and their offspring inherit genes through traditional inheritance, not genetic engineering technology.

Wild salmon populations are under pressure due to overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution. However, they are not threatened by genetic modification. Eating wild caught salmon supports healthy oceans and communities.

Genetically Engineered Farmed Salmon

In contrast to wild salmon, some farmed salmon has been genetically engineered. A company called AquaBounty has developed a genetically modified Atlantic salmon called AquAdvantage salmon. It contains genes from Chinook salmon and an eel-like species called ocean pout which allow it to grow twice as fast as conventional farmed salmon.

Currently, there is only one AquaBounty facility producing GM salmon eggs in Canada. The eggs are grown out at a farm in Indiana to market size before being sold in Canada and the US. However the GM salmon is not required to be labelled as such making it very difficult for consumers to avoid.

Genetically engineered salmon is concerning because of potential risks to human health and the environment. Many consumers and advocates are asking for mandatory labelling of GE salmon so they can avoid it if desired. Some grocers like Costco and Metro have pledged not to sell GM salmon in their stores.

Tips to Avoid Genetically Engineered Salmon

Here are some tips if you want to steer clear of genetically modified salmon:

• Purchase only wild caught salmon, no farmed.

• Check seafood guides to pick sustainable wild salmon fisheries.

• Contact grocery stores and restaurants to ask if they sell GM salmon.

• Buy salmon from stores like Costco and Metro that don’t sell GM salmon.

• Support mandatory labelling of genetically engineered foods including salmon.

In conclusion, wild salmon is not genetically engineered. However, some farmed Atlantic salmon contains genetically modified traits. Following seafood guides, asking questions, and buying wild salmon are good ways to avoid GM salmon if desired. mandatory labelling would allow consumers to make informed choices.