The aim of this research was the design, develop and characterize an innovative nano-biocomposite based on PLA, surfactant-modified cellulose nanocrystals (s-CNC) and synthe- sized silver nanoparticles (Ag) to be applied for fresh food antimicrobial active packaging. The effect of cellulose crystal nano-dimensions and the combination of cellulose nanostructures with synthesized silver nanoparticles were evaluated in terms of microstructure, crystallinity, water and oxygen barrier, migration and antibacterial properties. Moreover, the post-use properties of the developed multifunctional formulations were evaluated by a laboratory-scale composting condition test.