A microcapsule having a mean diameter of from about 0.1 to about 5 mm, a membrane and a matrix containing at least one active principle wherein the microcapsule is the product of the process comprising the steps of (a) forming an aqueous matrix by heating an aqueous solution comprised of a gel former, an anionic polymer selected from the group consisting of a salt of alginic acid and an anionic chitosan derivative and active principle; (b) forming a dispersed matrix by adding the aqueous matrix in an oil phase; (c) contacting the dispersed matrix with an aqueous solution of chitosan.