A method of improving the storage and handling characteristics of a condensed whey permeate ("CWP") comprising the steps of: (a) obtaining a CWP that: (i) has a total solids content in the range of about 20% to about 75% by weight and has a water content in the range of about 80% to about 25% by weight; (ii) has a lactose concentration of at least 70% by weight of the total solids content; and (iii) is at a pH of less than 8; and (b) treating the CWP with at least a sufficient proportion of alkali to raise the pH to at least 8. Also, a method comprising the steps of: (a) obtaining a CWP that does not exhibit substantial crystallization; and (b) treating the CWP with at least a sufficient proportion of alkali to reduce the amount of crystallization obtained using a 30 mesh screen for a sample of the treated CWP relative to a sample of the untreated CWP when tested after storing for 7 days at a temperature range having an upper limit that is at least 28.degree. C. (50.degree. F.) below the sufficient temperature to dissolve at a pH of about 7 an equivalent concentration of lactose in water to the concentration of lactose to water that is in the untreated CWP.