Chitosan-based nanosystems: Exploitation in the agri-food sector

The versatile characteristic features of chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) have captured considerable attention among researchers and invited their active participation in chitosan-based research over the long-gone 10 decades, resulting in indispensable products to our modern society. The ensuing nanochitosan contributes enormously to the agri-food sector through the formation and formulation of nanofertilizers, nanopesticides, and nanocarriers, leading to high yield, disease-resistant crop varieties, and food products with increased shelf life. Among the CSNP synthesis routes, biological synthesis has the advantage over chemical synthesis due to its nontoxicity, ecofriendliness, and avoidance of toxic chemicals. This chapter intends to provide an exhaustive outline on the structure, synthesis, and associated applicative chemicals to the agri-food segment as well as the biological properties of nano-sized chitosans. Further, a great deal of emphasis is given to CSNP applications in the agriculture and food sectors. Overall, the CSNP application is more beneficial not only in terms of improving the quality of modern agriculture, but also bestowing viable solutions to fulfill the current and upcoming food demands for our future generations.