<p>This study aims to develop biodegradable packaging films with environmentally friendly and antibacterial properties. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-based composite films were produced by modifying fig (<i>Ficus carica</i> L.) and grape (<i>Vitis labrusca</i> L.) leaf extracts with high antioxidant content. The films were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform ınfrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) methods. In mechanical tests, the highest tensile strength was measured as 203.4&#xa0;MPa in films containing 45% fig leaf extract, and this value showed an increase of 66% compared to the pure PVA film. Water absorption capacity was reduced to 85%, water solubility to 20.68%, and moisture content to 20%. Air permeability was reduced by 6%, and thermal conductivity was improved by 73%. In antibacterial tests, a 1.6 log₁₀ reduction was found against Escherichia coli and a 2.5 log₁₀ reduction against Staphylococcus aureus. In shelf life tests on chicken meat, it was observed that the modified films delayed spoilage by 2&#xa0;days. This study offers significant potential for using biodegradable packaging films with completely natural content and high antibacterial properties in the food sector.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>