"The first genetically modified animal could move one step closer to the U.S. market on Monday, when a federal advisory panel makes its recommendation on whether such food -- a salmon -- is safe for consumers to eat.

Both Food and Drug Administration staff and the salmon's maker, Aqua Bounty Technologies Inc, have said the faster growing fish appears to be the same as normal Atlantic salmon and poses no threat to the environment or diners.

But consumer advocates, environmentalists and others have protested the move. They say there is not enough data to show that eating it does not cause side effects such as allergic reactions or that accidental escape will not harm other fish.

On Monday, an FDA panel of medical experts will advise the FDA on whether there is 'reasonable certainty' that the engineered salmon is safe to eat or if there is a potential environmental threat. The agency will weigh the recommendations before making its final decision later."

Susan Heavey reports for Reuters September 20, 2010. [2]