Fish Industry Fears Frankenfish Backlash

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22.05.2001 07:00 US - GM Fish

Industry giants urged to fight GM fish

A North American seafood importer is calling on the major marine farming
companies to take up arms against attempts to develop genetically modified
salmon. If not, seafood consumption may decline, he says.

"It is my opinion that the US consumer would embrace genetically engineered
salmon about as enthusiastically as they would allow a nuclear power plant
to be erected in their back yard. If anything, the American public is
looking to find out more about the products that they assume to be
wholesome, safe and environmentally sound and more and more are leaning
to 'natural' or certified organic to be sure of what they are receiving,"

Richard C. Martin Jr. Wrote in a mail to IntraFish.

His company, Martin International Corp, is located in Boston and the
products are sold under its trademark "Black Pearl". Martin International
Corp imports, purchases and sells both farm raised and wild salmon, also
other species such for example, Arctic Charr, cod, haddock, shrimps and
shellfish. Expected turnover this year is around USD15 million. In 1981 he
worked in Seamark Corporation, which was the first to import Norwegian
farm raised salmon to the US.

"The time has come for the industry leaders (Nutreco, Pan Fish,
Fjord/Domstein/Stolt) to use their collective muscle and generate effective
counter measures to derail [Aqua Bounty's] media blitz. If they fail to do
so, or are secretly willing to utilize his technology, then I am the fool
and they will suffer the consequences," wrote Martin.

Aqua Bounty Farms has applied to the USA's food inspectorate for permission
to produce genetically modified salmon. The final decision will be probably
be made in 2002. Fish farmers across the globe are warning against the
experiment. American environmental organisations have already started to
flex their muscles.

"We are noticing increasing scepticism towards farm raised salmon among
consumers, retail and upper-end white tablecloth distributors. Organizations
such as the 'chefs' collaborative' are campaigning and spending significant
funds publicizing the (apparent) ecological horrors of salmon farming
(anywhere on earth)," wrote Martin. He also mentioned the Marine Stewardship
Council and its ecolabel certification programme, which are working against
"unnatural" farmed salmon.

Bent-Are Jensen, IntraFish

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