Abstract: The invention relates to a partially cross-linked polyvinyl alcohol, obtained by reacting a polyvinyl alcohol with a polycarboxylic acid, in particular a hydroxypolycarboxylic acid. The partially cross-linked polyvinyl alcohol can be used to produce foils, which have a good water-solubility or water-swelling capacity. Due to this property, such foils can be used as packing material for detergents, cosmetics and the like. According to the invention, the packing dissolves in water, releases its contents or is suitable for releasing (permeation) chemical compounds or agents.