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We did it! Most people are familiar with the term ‘factory farming’ and the intensive husbandry practices used by the agriculture industry. But some may not be aware of research that genetically modifies animals in order to maximize ‘productivity’ and profits, with the hope of selling to unwitting consumers. We’re happy to inform you that one such effort failed, despite millions invested in commercialization. A Massachusetts company called AquaBounty recently announced that it is ending fish farming operations for its genetically engineered (GE) salmon, designed to grow to desired market size faster than their wild counterparts. For more than 20 years, AAVS sustained its objections to this experimental technology, submitting extensive comments to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), alerting the public, and advocating with Congress. We were also part of a diverse coalition of organizations representing consumers, the environment, and Indigenous peoples that campaigned to block the sale of GE salmon due to health, environmental, and animal welfare concerns. At times, we urged our supporters to take action to oppose this gross misuse of science, and you helped to make this victory happen. Thank you! Although the sale of GE salmon was approved by the FDA in 2015, it was done with questionable assessment of the science, an inadequate regulatory approval process, and little concern for animal welfare. AquaBounty’s own data showed that its GE salmon were unhealthy and experienced high rates of abnormalities and mortality. Given the scientific research showing that fish experience pain, fear, and distress, the animal suffering surrounding GE salmon production was especially concerning. And American consumers wanted no part of it!
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