This invention relates to novel clarified hydrocolloids which substantially retain the physical properties of unclarified hydrocolloids. The invention also pertains to a novel process for making the clarified hydrocolloids. A process of producing a hydrocolloid which, when hydrated, forms a clear sol comprising: (a) soaking a hydrocolloid containing material dispersed in water until the hydrocolloid is hydrated; (b) stirring the hydrated hydrocolloid until a homogenous particulate containing sol is obtained; (c) removing insoluble particulates to produce a clarified sol; (d) removing remaining particulates in the clarified sol by filtration; and (e) recovering the clarified hydrocolloid from the filtrate.