The FDA is considering approval of a genetically modified salmon for general consumption.

On September 3, the FDA issued a report which found that eating engineered salmon was as safe as eating any other salmon. This reprents an important step forward for AquaBounty Technologies, a Waltham, Mass., company that has been working on genetically modified salmon since 1989.

Genetic engineering is a targeted and powerful method of introducing desirable traits into animals using recombinant DNA (rDNA) technology. DNA is the chemical inside the nucleus of a cell that carries the genetic instructions for making living organisms.

In January, 2009, the Food and Drug Administration issued a final guidance for industry on the regulation of genetically engineered (GE) animals. The guidance explains the process by which FDA is regulating GE animals and provides a set of recommendations to producers of GE animals to help them meet their obligations and responsibilities under the law. While the guidance is intended for industry, FDA believes it may also help the public gain a better understanding of this important and developing area.