Nanotechnology and closed-loop systems in the aquatic food industry

Aquaculture is one of the fastest-growing food industries, and it is very important for meeting the world's need for animal protein. But disease outbreaks, pesticide use, habitat stress, and bad feeding methods all make it harder for it to grow. Nanotechnology offers promising solutions to these issues by enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and food safety across the aquatic value chain. This chapter explores the use of nanomaterials, such as smart surface coatings that improve hygiene, antimicrobial substances that help manage diseases, nano-biosensors that enable real-time monitoring, and nano-encapsulated nutrients designed for precise delivery. Their use in cutting-edge systems that promote waste reduction, nutrient recycling, and water reuse in accordance with the objectives of the circular economy such as recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) and Integrated multitrophic aquaculture (IMTA) supports the goals of a circular economy by encouraging water reuse, nutrient recycling, and waste reduction. The chapter also looks closely at the legal, environmental, and moral issues that come up when using nanotechnology in aquatic food systems.