The invention provides a process for preparing a dried modified whey protein concentrate. A whey protein solution is used having less than 5% total solids and a combined calcium and magnesium concentration of less than 70 mmol/kg on a dry basis and a pH of 6.0-7.5. It is heated to greater than 70.degree. C. for up to 60 minutes to denature the whey protein. The solution is then cooled to 40.degree. C.-60.degree. C.; and subsequently spray dried. Alternatively a higher initial concentration of total solids may be used in an embodiment where the heating is carried out on a scraped surface heat exchanger.