Agribusiness Update for Thursday 11/26/15

Following last week's approval of genetically engineered salmon by the FDA, the battle is expected to heat up over biotech labeling. On Thursday, the FDA approved biotech salmon for human consumption, making salmon the first genetically engineered animal approved for consumption. The move will heat up the debate over GMO labeling laws. The first supplies of the biotech salmon, which will be engineered by AquaBounty Technologies, will grow faster than conventional salmon.

U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman expressed disappointment with a World Trade Organization ruling on the U.S. Tuna Labeling program. The program was designed to protect dolphins in tuna fishing operations, but the WTO said it unfairly restricts trade in tuna and tuna products from Mexico. However, USTR General Counsel Timothy Rief said "the U.S. has forcefully advocated for measures that protect dolphin populations from irresponsible fishing practices, and it is welcome that none of the findings in the report calls on the U.S. to reduce the protection of dolphins."

That's today's Agribusiness Update from the Ag Information Network of the West.