The synthesis and characterization of a biomimetic composite material composed of cellulose acetate embedded with a copper-based metal-organic framework, MOF-199 (HKUST-1), is reported and has been investigated for use as an adsorbent material in water remediation. Incorporation of MOF-199 into cellulose acetate enhances the stability of the metal-organic framework in water allowing for a flexible and tunable polymeric material. The adsorption of methylene blue to the cellulose-MOF199 composite was tracked spectroscopically over time and is best described by a mixed Langmuir-Freundlich isotherm adsorption model. The total remediation of methylene blue to the cellulose-MOF199 composite is comparable to that of pure cellulose, however, it is shown herein that incorporation of MOF-199 into cellulose acetate inhibits the growth of the Gram-negative bacterium Escherichia coli.