Nanotechnology in aquaculture: Applications, perspectives and regulatory challenges

Abstract

Aquaculture is considered one of the most important food production systems both in terms of economic impact and food security, and the ongoing development of this industry is a key factor in the strategy to guarantee global nutritional safety. Nowadays, different types of nanotechnology-based systems have been employed to increase its production, efficiency and sustainability. Recent efforts have been made in the fields of health management, enhancement of fish and shellfish development by dietary supplementation with nutraceuticals, but also in the processing and preservation of seafood and water treatment, among others. Therefore, nanotechnology has a significant role to play in the improvement of the efficiency and the environmental impact of this industry. Given this perspective, we propose to review the current situation of nanotechnology in the field of aquaculture and fisheries, emphasizing not only in current applications, and future prospects, but also in the ethical and governance aspects associated with this topic.