WASHINGTON – The Associate Press reports that large food companies are pushing a plan to allow voluntary labeling of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in manufactured foods “amid fears that they might face mandatory laws in the future” and to head off state-by-state efforts.

The groups are shopping legislation that directs the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to create a voluntary labeling system, which would also take precedence over state regulations.  The AP notes that it’s unclear whether the plan will gain traction among congressional lawmakers.

The move coincides with consumer demand to know more about the ingredients being used in food. The AP notes that very little science supports whether GMOs are unsafe in foods.

On Feb. 6 the Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) announced a coalition — The Coalition for Safe Affordable Food — with about 30 farm and food industry groups, including the National Corn Growers Association, National Restaurant Association and National Beverage Association, to urge Congress to support voluntary GMO labeling legislation.