Genetic engineering received a heap of attention from regulators in November, including a final guidance issued by FDA for voluntary labeling of products that contain genetically engineered (GE) ingredients.

Many manufacturers and marketers choose to voluntarily label products that are free from GE ingredients, using claims such as “non-GMO,” “GMO-free,” and the like. These claims—while highly desired by consumers—may not be appropriate from a regulatory standpoint.

Also in November, FDA announced the agency’s first approval of a genetically engineered animal intended for food—genetically engineered salmon. AquAdvantage salmon was developed by AquaBoutnry Technologies to grow to market size faster than its non-GE counterpart.