In this study, a pH‐sensitive indicator based on fish gelatin and Coleus scutellarioides anthocyanin extract (CSAE) was prepared and characterized. Films were prepared using the solvent casting method and different levels of CSAE, including 10 ml (CSG1), 20 ml (CSG2), and 30 ml (CSG3), and 0 ml (CSG0) as a control sample. The mechanical, optical, and pH sensing of active films and the release of anthocyanins from the films were investigated. The relationship between the total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB‐N) of fish fillets and a* color index of films was studied. By incorporation of CSAE, the flexibility of films increased, while the tensile strength and UV–Vis light transmittance through the films decreased (p < .05). The films containing the CSAE had a darker, yellowish, and reddish color than the control film. There was a significant relationship between the pH variation and the film color. The films had a purple color at acidic pH, and their color changed to green at an alkaline pH, indicating the sensitivity of the produced films to pH changes. There was a significant relationship between the TVB‐N value of fish fillets and the a* index of the film during the 16 h storage time. The results showed that by increasing TVB‐N values of the fillets, the a* color index decreased, and the films' color changed from purple to colorless. In summary, the active films prepared with fish gelatin and CSAE could be used as pH‐sensitive intelligent packaging to display the freshness of fishery products.

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