Abstract: Granules of starch or low protein rice flour are agglomerated to a larger size and a spherical shape by combining the granules with silicon dioxide and water to form a slurry, and drying the slurry by a spray dryer. The agglomerates have better flowability than the granules, and are readily used as direct compression fillers for tablets and capsules in drug or nutrient formulations. Tablets formed from these agglomerates have good hardness and friability, as well as favorable disintegration and dissolution characteristics. Chemically or physically modified starches can also be used, and starches other than rice starches can be included as well.