All Wild-Caught Salmon is Not GMO
All wild-caught salmon, including sockeye, coho, king, and pink salmon, are non-genetically modified. This is because they are harvested from their natural habitats, such as oceans and rivers, and have not been subject to the genetic engineering that created the single type of GM salmon that was briefly available.
Types of wild Pacific salmon
- Sockeye salmon: Known for its deep red-orange color and rich, distinct flavor, sockeye is a popular wild-caught choice. Its vibrant color comes from its natural diet of plankton and krill. Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch often gives high ratings to wild Alaskan sockeye fisheries.
- Coho salmon: Also called silver salmon, coho has a milder flavor and firm texture. It is prized for its versatility in cooking and is widely available from sustainable fisheries in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska.
- King salmon (Chinook): As the largest and richest of the Pacific salmon, king salmon is highly valued for its high fat content and buttery texture. It is a premium product often sourced from Alaskan waters.
- Pink salmon (Humpback): Smaller and lighter in color, pink salmon is a budget-friendly option often sold canned or smoked. It has a delicate flavor and is a sustainable, abundant wild species.
Understanding Farmed and GMO Salmon
While the only commercially produced GM salmon has been taken off the market, not all farmed salmon is guaranteed non-GMO without verification. Genetically modified salmon, produced by AquaBounty Technologies, was a type of Atlantic salmon engineered to grow faster. However, the company ceased production and sold its facilities in 2024, essentially eliminating the source of GM salmon from the marketplace. The vast majority of farmed Atlantic salmon on the market today is selectively bred, not genetically engineered.
Choosing non-GMO farmed salmon
To be certain, consumers can look for specific labels and sourcing information. Brands like Superior Fresh offer Certified Non-GMO Atlantic salmon raised in controlled indoor recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS). These systems offer strict control over the fish's diet and environment, ensuring they are not genetically engineered and are raised to high welfare standards. When shopping, look for these certifications or check with retailers regarding their product sourcing.
Comparison: Wild-Caught vs. Farmed Non-GMO Salmon
| Feature | Wild-Caught Salmon | Farmed Non-GMO Salmon |
|---|---|---|
| GMO Status | Always non-GMO | Non-GMO with certification |
| Flavor Profile | Often richer, more complex due to natural diet | Milder, more consistent flavor |
| Color | Ranges from deep red to pink, naturally from diet | Pale gray flesh unless colored with astaxanthin |
| Texture | Firmer muscle fibers from swimming in wild currents | Softer, more delicate texture |
| Environmental Impact | Sustainable if sourced from well-managed fisheries (e.g., MSC certified) | Can be highly sustainable in land-based RAS facilities |
| Omega-3s | Levels vary based on species and season | Consistent, high levels due to controlled diet |
The Rise and Fall of GMO Salmon
The story of AquaBounty's AquAdvantage salmon began decades ago and ended relatively recently. After years of development and regulatory review, it became the first GM animal approved for human consumption in the U.S. and Canada. However, facing poor market demand and financial struggles, the company shut down its GM salmon production facilities in 2024. This turn of events demonstrates that despite regulatory approval, consumer concerns and market forces ultimately determined the product's fate.
Labeling requirements and consumer awareness
Following its approval, the USDA's National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard required labeling for bioengineered salmon. However, many grocery chains, including Costco and Whole Foods, publicly committed to not selling the GM product, effectively limiting its market reach. For other seafood products, the Non-GMO Project explains that processed goods with ingredients like soy, corn, or added colorings can contain GMOs, making certification more important for multi-ingredient items.
Conclusion: How to Ensure Your Salmon is Not GMO
To confidently buy salmon that is not GMO, the clearest choice is to select wild-caught Pacific salmon, which is never genetically modified. For consumers who prefer farmed options, looking for a third-party non-GMO certification, such as the Non-GMO Project Verified label or A Greener World's (AGW) Certified Non-GMO logo, provides assurance. While the company that produced the world's only GM salmon has ceased operations, staying informed about sourcing and seeking reputable certifications remains the best practice for making an informed choice. A shopper's vigilance for wild-caught labeling and specific non-GMO certification ensures peace of mind.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute official endorsements or guarantees regarding specific products or certification status. For independent verification, always check the product packaging and consult official certification websites like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) or A Greener World (AGW).
