Algae-based nanoparticles for enhancing sustainable applications in integrated food-water ecosystem

Over the past decade with the ever-increasing population growth, the concurrent demands for food and water have risen, thus significantly affecting sustainability. Recently, biogenic nanoparticles produced from algal biomass inherently rich in secondary metabolites have garnered huge attention to sort the complexities related to food-water nexus. This critical review aims to explore recent advancements in the synthesis, characterization, and functional properties of algae-based nanoparticles (ANPs), highlighting their role in supporting sustainable solutions across the food and water sectors. Interactions of ANPs with various components present in water and soil are discussed to comprehend the potential challenges and seek solutions for improving their real-time applicability. Further, the underlying mechanisms have been correlated with potential applications linked to environmental bioremediation, agricultural applications and food supply chain management. The morphology and physicochemical characteristics of ANPs depend on the algae type, procedure used, and other factors such as the concentration of algal extract and metal, incubation time, temperature, and pH levels. ANPs depending on their surface and functional properties have been reported to have a higher remediation efficiency for heavy metals, dyes, and nutrients from wastewater. High antimicrobial and antioxidant activity also makes them a good candidate for active food packaging to extend shelf-life. Challenges in scalability, stability, and environmental risk are also elaboratively discussed. Overall, this review provides a foundational framework for future interdisciplinary research aimed at optimizing algae-based nanotechnologies for sustainable development.