The biggest scare is accidental release into the wild. A quote I came across in an article. "According to a Purdue University computer model that tracked the effects of releasing just 60 "Frankenfish" into a population of 60,000, there was a complete extinction of the normal fish in just 40 fish generations. It appears the larger size, which attracted mates more easily, combined with a slight reduction in survival rates, was a killer combination." The Canadians are in an uproar over this.
It only takes a few to escape and breed. Once that happens, AquaBounty will legally own every salmon in the ocean. The potential for accidental release is huge. There is no such thing as a release proof hatchery. It will only take a few. Also, No sterilization technique is 100%. AquaBounty: "sterilization technique is not foolproof." Especially when you are dealing with millions of eggs at a time.
Another quote I came across in an article.
In June 2011, NOAA Administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco released a National Aquaculture Policy to guide how marine aquaculture proceeds in our ocean waters. While the policy includes some strong environmental provisions, it does not categorically prohibit the growing of GE fish in the ocean. It should. The profit models for this fish to produce big bucks all require growing in the ocean. As soon as that happens, the seals/sea lions will tear the nets to shreads just like they do today with the atlantic salmon. It will all be over with in a flash.
There is no requirement to label these fish in the market place. They will be labeled Salmon.
I agree with this wholeheartedly. There are three salmon farms in BC right now which are being used to write the new Canadian standards for commercial fish farming. They have solved problems of waste and contamination, parasite introduction, and escape. The government has closely monitored their success. In the US with some in WA, there are quite a few new plants designed in the same fashion.
