The awards both came in the Medical/Dental diagnostic tools category with the 3M™ Molecular Detection Assay 2 winning the gold medal and the 3M™ Mobile True Definition Scanner taking the bronze.

The 3M Molecular Detection Assay 2 platform from Food Safety is the next generation of tests for 3M’s Edison-award winning 3M™ Molecular Detection System.

The technology makes molecular detection of foodborne pathogens – such as salmonella, listeria and E.coli – simpler and faster for food manufacturers.

Polly Foss, vice-president and general manager for 3M Food Safety, commented: “We work to enhance food safety by offering transformational technology that protects the health of consumers while optimising productivity and protecting the brands of our customers.

“Therefore, we are especially proud to receive this honour as it showcases our commitment to innovative solutions that bring about safety and quality in our food supply.”

The 3M Mobile True Definition Scanner from 3M Oral Care is a one-of-a-kind tablet-based intraoral scanner. Its ergonomic, handheld technology is similar to tablets that patients and dentists use in everyday life and gives dentists the freedom to carry the scanner between surgeries.

James Ingebrand, president and general manager for 3M Oral Care, said: “It is an honour to receive an Edison Award for our innovative approach to oral care and commitment to bringing digital advancement to the industry.

“Positively impacting both the ability of clinicians to provide quality treatment and the oral health of patients is what is most important to us at 3M and we appreciate being recognised for that commitment to the oral care industry.”

The Edison Awards programme is managed by Edison Universe, a non-profit organisation dedicated to fostering future innovators.

Category finalists were judged by a panel of more than 3,000 senior business executives and academics in the fields of product development, design, engineering, science and medicine, with winners chosen for their excellence in concept, value, delivery and impact.

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