Rep. Dennis Kucinich, D-Ohio, is preparing to present genetically engineered food labeling legislation before the House of Representatives this summer or early fall, hoping to bring the issue to a vote in the House.

"Consumers have an absolutely imperative right to know what is in the food they eat," said Doug Gordon, spokesman for Kucinich.

The Genetically Engineered Food Right to Know Act of 2005 would require labeling of products containing genetically modified foods. Citing a Time magazine poll, Kucinich's staff said most U.S. shoppers want genetically engineered foods to be labeled, but said but Congressional support for such labeling is not proportional to public opinion.

Kucinich already introduced labeling legislation in the past two Congresses, but the act was rejected before being voted on in the House. However, Gordon said Kucinich is ever-hopeful that the issue will be brought to a vote. He expects the bill will be supported by the same co-sponsors as last year, as well as several consumer, farmer, environmental and food safety organizations.

Gordon said retailers who support the legislation should write to their representatives, letting them know how important the issue is.

"This couldn't be any simpler," said Gordon. "It's the simple fact that consumers have the right to know what is in their food."