Abstract: The present invention is directed to cold water swellable starches exhibiting delayed viscosity development, preparation and use thereof. The cold water swellable starches are prepared using methods known in the art and then are compacted. These starches provide all the advantages of CWS starch, including texture, heavy body, glossy sheen, and viscosity. However, the rate of hydration may be controlled to delay viscosity development. Such starches may be used for a variety of industrial applications including food products, personal care products, cleansers, liquid detergents and fabric softeners, oil-well drilling, and paints and allow for easier processing of such products.