FDA Approves First Lab-Grown Salmon
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued its first-ever approval for a lab-grown fish, marking a significant step for the cell-cultivated food industry. This approval paves the way for Wildtype, a company specializing in cultivated seafood, to sell its salmon product. The FDA's "no questions" letter signifies that they found the cultivated salmon to be as safe as conventionally raised salmon.
This approval process is voluntary, but it significantly enhances market acceptance. Wildtype's salmon is now available at a Portland restaurant and the company plans to expand distribution. While Wildtype is the first to gain FDA approval for seafood, other companies like Upside Foods and Good Meat have received authorization to sell cultivated chicken. The regulatory landscape is however, complex with ongoing discussions and even some state-level bans on lab-grown meat.
Regulatory Landscape
The FDA holds sole jurisdiction over the majority of lab-grown seafood products, while cultivated meat products are under shared regulatory control with the USDA. While a pre-market safety consultation is voluntary, it is considered a valuable asset for companies looking to enter the market.
Future of Cultivated Foods
This development represents a substantial advancement in the cultivated foods sector, suggesting a growing acceptance of this technology. However, the varied regulatory responses across different states indicate challenges still remain to ensure a smooth and unified market for lab-grown products. The long-term success of this market will largely depend on resolving these regulatory issues and consumer acceptance.
Source: The Verge