“Frankenfish” is a colloquial term for genetically engineered fish, referring to organisms whose genetic material is intentionally altered to introduce specific traits.
Understanding Genetically Engineered Fish
Genetic engineering in fish involves manipulating an organism’s DNA to introduce desired characteristics, such as faster growth rates or increased disease resistance. Scientists achieve this by adding genes from one species to another, a technique known as transgenesis. For instance, a gene from a different fish species might be inserted into an Atlantic salmon to enhance its growth.
Methods for introducing altered genes into the fish’s genome typically involve techniques like microinjection into fertilized eggs, allowing the new genetic material to integrate into the host’s DNA. This aims to create fish with improved traits for aquaculture, such as better feed conversion efficiency or enhanced environmental tolerance.
Beyond transgenesis, newer gene-editing tools like CRISPR-Cas9 allow for more precise modifications to an organism’s existing DNA. These tools can make targeted changes, such as deleting or replacing specific gene regions, leading to desired outcomes without necessarily introducing foreign DNA.
The Case of the AquaBounty Salmon
A prominent example of genetically engineered fish is the AquAdvantage Salmon, developed by AquaBounty Technologies. This Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) was modified to grow to market size more quickly than its conventional counterparts. The modification involves a growth hormone gene from the Pacific Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) and a “promoter” sequence from the ocean pout (Macrozoarces americanus), an eel-like fish.
The ocean pout’s promoter sequence acts as a genetic “on-switch,” enabling the Chinook salmon’s growth hormone gene to be expressed continuously, rather than only during warmer months. This allows the AquAdvantage Salmon to reach its market weight in approximately 16 to 18 months, compared to the 36 months typically required for non-genetically engineered Atlantic salmon. The AquAdvantage Salmon holds historical significance as the first genetically engineered animal approved for human consumption in the United States and Canada.
Regulatory Framework and Approval Process
Before genetically engineered fish can be sold for consumption, they undergo a rigorous regulatory review process. In the United States, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the primary agency responsible for regulating these animals. The FDA evaluates genetically engineered animals under the new animal drug provisions of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
This process involves an extensive assessment of the product’s safety for human and animal consumption, as well as its potential environmental impact. The FDA evaluates data provided by the manufacturer, along with other peer-reviewed scientific information. For instance, in the FDA’s review of the AquAdvantage Salmon, a comprehensive analysis led to a Finding of No Significant Impact regarding its environmental effects, due to multiple containment measures in place.
Safety and Labeling for Consumers
Scientific consensus and regulatory findings indicate that genetically engineered fish, such as the AquAdvantage Salmon, are safe and nutritious to eat, comparable to their non-genetically engineered counterparts. Assessments have shown comparable nutritional profiles and no biologically relevant differences in key hormones.
Regarding labeling, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has established rules requiring disclosure for bioengineered foods. Products containing genetically engineered ingredients must be labeled as “bioengineered” using text, an electronic link, or a specific symbol.