This article presents a simple inexpensive method to measure flow and viscoelastic properties of calcium alginate hydrogels or gel solutions and is particularly suitable for quality control in small laboratory settings. This method can be considered an extension of the Melt Flow Index (MFI) method, which is routinely used in the polymer industry to indirectly determine the molecular weight of polymers. Results of alginate gels at various crosslinking densities obtained with this new test are compared to complex viscosity data obtained from a standard cone and plate rheometer, and demonstrate very good correlation. A mathematical model describing the apparent viscosity of the alginate gels in this test has also been developed. (C) 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 118: 574-579, 2010