Background: The widespread use of non-biodegradable synthetic plastics in food packaging has led to severe environmental pollution. Agricultural residues such as sugarcane bagasse, sunflower meal, and wheat straw offer a sustainable alternative, being rich in film-forming biopolymers like cellulose, proteins, and lignin. Their conversion into biodegradable films supports circular economy principles and reduces agro-industrial waste.

Aim: This study aims to develop and characterize biodegradable films from selected agricultural residues for potential application in green food packaging.

Methods: Sugarcane bagasse, sunflower meal, and wheat straw were processed to extract carboxymethyl cellulose, protein isolates, and bacterial nanocellulose. These components were blended with plasticizers and cast into films. The films were evaluated for mechanical, thermal, and barrier properties, as well as biodegradability. Selected formulations were tested for food packaging efficiency using strawberries. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA and Tukey’s test (p < 0.05).

Results: Bacterial nanocellulose-reinforced films showed superior tensile strength, thermal stability, reduced water permeability, and enhanced biodegradability. They also significantly preserved strawberry firmness, color, and reduced microbial load during storage.