#$%^&*AU2016273811A120170706.pdf#####19 Abstract Since polysaccharides cannot be sterilised by sterile filtration due to the high viscosity of their aqueous solutions, they are generally sterilised by means of gamma radiation or steam although this leads to degradation of the polymer chains. The present invention 5 provides a sterilisation method according to which an aqueous polysaccharide solution is stored in the presence of a lactone and a buffer system for a period of at least 24 hours. The invention also provides a sterile polysaccharide solution produced in this way.
