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The environmental impact of conventional plastic packaging and the increasing generation of food waste have highlighted the need for sustainable and biodegradable packaging alternatives. This project aimed to develop biodegradable food packaging paper using banana peels, sugarcane bagasse, and recycled paper as alternative raw materials. The paper was produced using a manual papermaking technique, with three formulations prepared at different proportions: Sample 298 (40% sugarcane bagasse, 20% banana peel, and 40% recycled paper), Sample 435 (30% sugarcane bagasse, 40% banana peel, and 30% recycled paper), and Sample 621 (60% sugarcane bagasse, 20% banana peel, and 20% recycled paper). A quantitative approach was employed to assess product acceptance through a questionnaire administered to 30 students and lecturers at Politeknik METrO Kuantan. Respondents evaluated five attributes: colour, appearance, texture, thickness, and overall acceptance, using a five-point Likert scale. The data were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 21 to determine mean scores and standard deviations. The findings revealed that Sample 621 achieved the highest overall acceptance score (4.47 ± 1.008), followed by Sample 298 (3.60 ± 1.037) and Sample 435 (3.50 ± 0.900). Based on these findings, Sample 621 was selected for further product development into three packaging prototypes: a paper bag, wrapping paper, and a bag for fried food. The innovation demonstrates the potential to transform food waste fibres into value-added packaging materials while supporting waste reduction, resource efficiency, and sustainable product development. It also offers opportunities for further innovation and entrepreneurship through the development of environmentally conscious packaging solutions. Nevertheless, further evaluation of mechanical strength, durability, biodegradability, and food-contact safety is necessary before commercial application. This project contributes to sustainable packaging innovation by exploring the conversion of food waste into potentially useful packaging products aligned with circular economy principles.

Keywords: Biodegradable packaging, banana peel, sugarcane bagasse, food waste valorisation, sustainable innovation