3M Food Safety have announced that its 3M™ Molecular Detection Assay 2 – Cronobacter has been designated by AOAC INTERNATIONAL® as Performance Tested Method (Certificate #101703). Introduced last year, the assay is the latest in a line of next-generation assays compatible with the award-winning 3M™ Molecular Detection System, which uses isothermal DNA amplification and bioluminescence detection to test for pathogens.

Cronobacter is a group of bacteria that are found in powdered foods and supplements, most commonly in infant formula. The bacteria can survive for up to two years in infant formula and exposure can cause life-threatening infections in newborns.

“While less well known than other foodborne pathogens like Listeria or Salmonella, Cronobacter is no less dangerous – particularly because it preys on some of the most vulnerable populations,” said 3M Global Marketing Manager Carolina Riba. “It’s a point of pride for our team that the tests we’ve made for the dangerous pathogen were recognized by an organization like AOAC INTERNATIONAL.”

3M’s testing process involved comprehensive testing by an independent laboratory per the approved testing protocol of the AOAC Research Institute. The assay was tested on powdered infant formula, powdered infant cereal, lactose powder and an environmental surface.

3M Food Safety is a leader of innovative solutions that help the food and beverage industries optimize the quality and safety of their products to enable consumer protection. It provides solutions that mitigate risk, improve operational efficiencies and impact bottom lines.

For more information on the 3M Molecular Detection Assay 2 - Cronobacter visit www.3M.com/foodsafety/MDA2