Abstract: The invention is a composition for thermal energy storage in heating or cooling items. The composition includes a crosslinked alkali metal polyacrylamide or polyacrylate/polyacrylamide copolymer. The alkali metal may be potassium or sodium, preferably potassium. The copolymer has a particle size of at least 1500 microns, preferably 2000-4000 microns. The composition includes water with its pH adjusted to 6.0 to 7.0. The composition also includes propylene glycol. An antimicrobial agent is included to prevent degradation due to microbial growth. A coloring agent may also be added. The composition has the appearance of crushed ice.