From: OC EXECSEC Sent: Tuesday, June 12, 2001 2:10 PM To: Dockets, FDA Subject: FW: Do Not Approve A/F Protein's Genetically Engineered Fish--Docket# 01P-0230 -----Original Message----- From: Malcolm Kenton [mailto:malcolmke@care2.com] Sent: Tuesday, June 12, 2001 10:50 AM To: Commissioner Subject: Do Not Approve A/F Protein's Genetically Engineered Fish--Docket# 01P-0230 Commissioner , The potential escape and breeding of genetically altered fish poses an unacceptable and irreversable threat to the health of us and our planet. I ask that you enforce stringent restrictions on the raising and breeding of GE salmon and other fish. Remember, other animals and the Earth have undeniable rights, and it isn't worth risking our health to allow mega-corporations big profits. I urge the FDA not to approve the current application by A/F Protein to sell GE salmon. Genetically engineered fish have the potential to be invasive species that could cause irreversible ecological damage to wild fish stocks as well as the wider marine environment. Sterility of genetically engineered fish is inherently uncertain given the possibility for human error and natural variation. Even if sterility were ever achievable, sterile genetically engineered fish would still compete with wild fish for food, habitat and will effect the overall marine ecology. The history of fish farming clearly demonstrates that once released into ocean ponds, fish will escape and, since fish do not obey national boundaries, any release of genetically engineered fish will be international by its very nature. The release of GE fish is an international concern in which we all have a stake and on which every government and their citizens should have an opportunity to say no. I fervently request that the FDA not to approve the current application by A/F Protein for GE Salmon because GE fish pose an unnecessary and unacceptable risk to the marine environment and potentially to human health. Malcolm Kenton 606 Park Avenue Greensboro, NC 27405 malcolmke@care2.com