<p>Date pomace from industrial residues has not been widely used as a source of cellulose. Cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) from date pomace, along with plasticizers, help overcome the limitations of chitosan-based films. The functionality of composites as intelligent packaging can be achieved by adding anthocyanins. This study investigates the synergistic effects of adding CNFs from date pomace and glycerol on the physical and mechanical properties of chitosan-based films that have not been studied before, and evaluates the effect of anthocyanins on the total color change of the film for its application as intelligent packaging. CNFs were prepared through ultrasonication and acid treatment of cellulose pulp from date pomace. Chitosan, CNFs, and glycerol were blended with CNF content up to 10%&#xa0;wt, followed by solvent casting and drying. Anthocyanins with various amounts of up to 5%&#xa0;w/v were composited into the best formula, followed by an evaluation of the film discoloration at different pHs. The morphology, functional group, X-ray diffraction, and physical and mechanical properties were evaluated from the composite. The addition of glycerol and CNFs from date pomace is proven to synergistically improve pure chitosan film’s physical and mechanical properties. The chitosan-glycerol-CNF composites produce tensile strength and break strain 1.3 times and 7 times that of pure chitosan film. Its composite with anthocyanins shows its potential application as a sensitive intelligent packaging between pH 3–4, 4–5, and 6–7.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>