A process is disclosed for producing an acidic superabsorbent polysaccharide derivative, comprising the steps of: (a) crosslinking at least one polysaccharide containing acidic groups, such as carboxymethyl cellulose and/or 6-carboxy starch, with a crosslinking agent to produce a gel; (b) if necessary, adjusting the pH of the polysaccharide to a value between 3.5 and 5.5; (c) comminuting the acidified polysaccharide gel; and (d) drying the comminuted polysaccharide at elevated temperature. The superabsorbent polysaccharide obtainable by this process has a pH below 5 and provides odour control when contacted with malodorous fluids.
