Means for embedding microorganisms in a polymer matrix

A process for producing a dry, stable, storable, and biologically-active product of microorganisms embedded in matrix of a polymer gel comprising the steps of forming a polymer gel by combining at least one polymer selected from the group of the polysaccharides with a biologically-active microorganism-containing composition and at least partially cross-linking said polymer, said cross-linking embedding said microorganisms in the matrix of said polymer gel;

• and drying said polymer gel, said drying not converting the microorganisms embedded in said polymer gel to a dormant or latent state.