Introduction: Environmental concerns associated with petroleum-based packaging have driven the development of biodegrad able and active alternatives. Aim/Objectives: This study investigates sorghum starch–silver nanoparticle (AgNP) nanocomposite films for antimicrobial dairy packaging. Materials and Methods: AgNPs were synthesized via citrate reduction and confirmed by UV–Visible spectroscopy (SPR: 450 500 nm). Sorghum starch was extracted and used to prepare films (3.5–6.5%) plasticized with sorbitol and incorporated with AgNPs (1–5%, w/w). Films were evaluated for thickness, swelling, and antimicrobial activity. Shelf-life studies were conducted on paneer at room temperature and 4 °C. Statistical analysis was performed using two-way ANOVA. Results: Synthesized AgNPs showed strong antimicrobial activity (16–22 mm). Film thickness (0.10–0.34 mm) increased with starch concentration, indicating enhanced matrix density. Swelling behaviour varied across formulations, with optimized films showing controlled water uptake. Antimicrobial activity was concentration-dependent, with 5% AgNP films showing inhibition against Gram-negative bacteria. In paneer, coated samples exhibited up to 3.19 log CFU/g reduction in coliforms at room tem perature (p