The Big Apple had a taste of Australian banana power during last week’s announcements of the prestigious Edison Awards.

Mareeba banana growers and owners of Natural Evolution Foods, Rob and Krista Watkins won gold in the prestigious US awards, and were in New York to collect the accolades for their winning NutroLock entry, in the Consumer Goods section.

The Awards celebrate excellence in new product and service development, marketing, human-centred design and innovation.

Chair of the Australian Banana Growers’ Council, Stephen Lowe congratulated the Watkins’ for their determination and passion to develop their nutraceutical business.

“The Edison Awards are recognised internationally as one of the top honours for global inventors and innovators.  What a coup for the Watkins’ to be amongst those receiving recognition this year,” Mr Lowe said.

“I commend the Watkins’ for their persistence in getting to this point of international recognition in a competition which cultivates world leading innovators. I certainly wish them every success,” he said.