FDA approves genetically modified salmon in agency first

This marks the first engineered animal product to be approved for sale although GM food such as soy and corn are already available

The production and consumption of genetically engineered salmon has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration, marking the first time that a genetically modified animal product has been cleared for sale in the US.

The FDA said that it has approved the salmon, produced by Massachusetts-based firm AquaBounty Technologies, "based on sound science and a comprehensive review" that found the product was safe for US consumers. While GM food such as soy and corn are already available, this will be the first engineered animal product to be approved for sale.