The work aims to seek biodegradable alternatives to petroleum-based plastics, improve food quality and safety during storage and prepare degradable cellulose-based packaging materials, which is the utmost approach at present. In this paper, the characteristics, preparation and application of cellulose-based hydrogels in food preservation were reviewed. The preparation and application of cellulose derivatives were summarized. The research status of high mechanical strength hydrogel films, antibacterial-antioxidant hydrogel films, adhesive hydrogel films, self-healing hydrogel films and environmentally responsive hydrogel films for food packaging were mainly introduced. It has become one of the packaging materials with mature technology and wide range of applications of multi-functional cellulose-based hydrogel films after decades of exploration and development. Its biocompatibility and degradability are going to completely change the industry of disposable food packaging. In conclusion, sustainable food packaging is a key factor to ensure the success of the food system. The preparation of cellulose-based packaging materials is the main trend of developing food packaging materials in the future.