Processes for preparing crosslinker-free, chitosan-containing compositions, comprising: (a) providing an aqueous mixture of a chitosan, wherein the aqueous mixture has a viscosity of from 1,000 mPas to 100,000 mPas; (b) combining a precipitant with the aqueous mixture to form a crosslinker-free chitosan composition; and (c) drying the crosslinker-free chitosan composition to form a crosslinker-free three-dimensional structure; are described. Also described are three-dimensional structures prepared thereby and uses therefor in cosmetics, food additives and medical products