The present invention relates to methods for making modified fillers for use in a papermaking process, methods for making a paper using the modified fillers, and modified fillers and paper produced therewith. In one aspect, the present invention provides a method for making a modified filler for use in a papermaking process, which comprises applying a starch composition comprising starch to a reaction composition comprising at least one of fatty acid, rosin acid, and ammonium sulfate to form a reaction mixture; and applying a filler composition comprising a filler to the reaction mixture, whereby forming a modified filler. In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of using a modified filler in a papermaking process, which comprises applying a modified filler to a composition comprising fiber to form a mixture; and processing the mixture, whereby producing a paper.