The "Frankenfish"

These days, a big chunk of our produce is genetically modified and now fish is the new experiment! They are calling it the "Frankenfish". How fitting. We are starting to realize the dangers of GMO produce but are GMO fish going to be worse? 

What is a  "Frankenfish" ?
A "Frankenfish" is genetically engineered fish that grows faster and bigger than normal fish.  "Frankenfish" can grow 10 times the size of normal fish in the first year. Salmon was the first species to be modified and we can be fairly certain that transgenic fish will enter the marketplace eventually, right now it’s waiting on FDA approval.

Potential Risks for Consumers?
There are unknown health risks of eating GE fish, scientists cannot predict the outcome of human consumption until it happens. There will also be a difficult task of trying to purchase unaffected fish. There may be no labeling of transgenetic fish, making it impossible to identify them in supermarkets.

How Can I Make Sure I Am Buying Non-GMO Fish?
Luckily, there are still options for getting quality produce and avoiding genetically modified food. Going "vegan" or "vegetarian" is the only concrete way to avoid it but, if you can't kick a no-fish diet here are some good options! 

• Local is the best way to go. 
• Buy USDA certified organic
• Ask for "wild caught" not farm raised unless you know the company and source. 
• Choose a fish that is not in as high of demand. Salmon will probably be the worst.
  
• Get out of the mindset that bigger is better. Buying smaller fish could increase your chance of getting GMO free produce.
• Educate yourself about GMO's and how to avoid them. Knowledge is power!

Avoid GMO Salmon