Described is a polymeric compound comprising a polyvinyl alcohol, a carbohydrate, and a polyacrylic acid, in which compound the carbohydrate is present as a cross-linking agent which cross-links chains of polyvinyl alcohol and/or chains of polyacrylic acid. The novel compound has interesting properties as an alternative to known plastics materials. It is biologically degradable, has a reduced content of fossil starting material, and exhibits hardness and flexibility properties useful for widespread applications, such as packaging material and coatings. In addition, a method for producing the polymeric compound is disclosed.