GMO fruits. GMO vegetables. GMO animals? Thanks to approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), genetically modified salmon is the first genetically modified animal to win approval from the FDA. (1) The GMO salmon has been deemed safe for consumption, ending an almost 20-year struggle by the fish manufacturer, AquaBountyTechnologies, to sell the salmon in stores.

Because of a growth hormone in the GMO fish, this “Frankenfish” can grow to full market size in 18 to 20 months. Another “promotor” gene means that the fish can grow year-round, instead of seasonally.

For conventionally farmed and wild-caught salmon, it takes almost double the amount of time, or 28 to 36 months, to reach their full size. This ability to speed up salmon’s growth span will allow more of the fish to be commercially available, increasing consumption.  Watch the video below to learn more.