The U.S. Senate has rejected an amendment by Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski that would have required a comprehensive study of genetically engineered salmon before it can be sold to consumers.

KMXT radio reports that Thursday's vote on her amendment was 50 to 46.

AquaBounty has developed an Atlantic salmon that would grow year-round and reach market size more quickly. The company says it would rear only sterile female salmon in a landlocked area to prevent any escape into the wild.

If approved, the AquaBounty fish would be the first genetically engineered meat product approved for consumption by humans. Both of Alaska's senators are strongly opposed to the production of genetically engineered salmon.