An improved cold water soluble gelatin and a process of preparing it. The improved cold water soluble gelatin is prepared by drying an aqueous solution containing water, gelatin, maltodextrin having a dextrose equivalent of about 5 to about 20, an acid and an amount of surface-active agent effective to increase dispersibility in the final product. An optional, but preferred, feature comprises holding the aqueous solution at an elevated temperature for a specified period prior to the drying step. The cold water soluble gelatins are characterized by improved solubility and ease of dispersion in water as well as by the clarity of the gels produced therefrom.