Gelatin is a translucent, colorless, flavorless food ingredient derived from collagen, which is obtained from animal connective tissues, bones, and skin. It is commonly used as a gelling agent in various food products, desserts, and candies, as well as in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. In cooking, it typically comes in powdered or sheet form and needs to be dissolved in hot liquids before being used to thicken or stabilize mixtures.