The future of shrimps is sustainable and speaks French – Shrimps are among the world’s most popular fish species, but their intensive production often has a devastating impact on coastal ecosystems, particularly delicate mangrove forests. However, a new frontier of sustainable aquaculture is emerging thanks to Agriloops, a French start-up that is redefining the boundaries of fish and agricultural production through technological innovation.
Agriloops has developed the world’s first saltwater aquaponics system, a cutting-edge technology that integrates shrimp farming with vegetable cultivation in a circular, virtuous ecosystem called Mangrove #1. This solution not only reduces the environmental impact of shrimp production, but also offers a concrete response to the need for sustainability and food security.
The circular model that turns waste into resources
At the heart of Mangrove #1, shrimp are raised in saltwater tanks that produce nutrient-rich wastewater. Instead of being discharged into the environment, this water is reused as a natural fertiliser for growing vegetables in adjacent greenhouses. The result? Fresh, local, never frozen, antibiotic-free prawns and high-quality vegetables grown without pesticides or chemicals.
This system drastically reduces the consumption of resources such as water and energy, eliminates harmful discharges into natural ecosystems and reduces dependence on long global supply chains. Jérémie Cognard, CEO and co-founder of Agriloops, emphasises:
‘Our goal is to use fewer and fewer resources and offer sustainable, local products at competitive prices. This is the future of aquaculture’.
From start-up to industrial model: 13 million euro growth
In 2024, Agriloops has raised 13 million euros to expand its activities and build its first industrial-scale farm in France. The new site will include a 5,000-square-metre greenhouse for vegetable production and a 2,000-square-metre aquaculture facility for shrimp farming. The plant is expected to be fully operational by April 2025.
This success would not have been possible without the support of BlueInvest, a European Union programme that provided strategic coaching and fundraising assistance. ‘BlueInvest helped us refine our strategy and prepare for growth. Now we are ready to expand across Europe,’ says Cognard.
An impact that goes beyond sustainability
With the goal of producing over 100 tonnes of shrimps and vegetables per year, Agriloops aims to meet the growing demand for sustainable food products in Europe. Besides reducing the environmental impact, the project strengthens local economic resilience, creates new jobs and promotes a globally replicable business model.
Agriloops is not only an example of technological innovation, but a true symbol of how aquaculture can evolve in harmony with the environment, offering concrete solutions for a greener and more sustainable future.
The future of shrimps is sustainable and speaks French
