Abstract: This invention relates to microcapsules based on gelatin and anionic polysaccharides of low molecular weight which may contain solid or liquid matters, prepared by coacervation. The aqueous polysaccharide solutions which may be used present a low viscosity, the value of which is a function of the nature of the polysaccharide; for a concentration of 15 g/l, it is, at 75.degree. C., generally between 1 and 20 mPa.s. These polysaccharides are depolymerization products of natural products:alginates, carragheenans, pectins and pectates, carboxymethylcelluloses, carboxymethylguars and carboxymethyl starches. The microcapsules may be isolated and dried.