Abstract: A process is disclosed for manufacturing a substantially grit-free calcium salt of an aliphatic carboxylic acid having twelve to twenty-two carbon atoms comprising the steps of (1) conveying into a mixing zone at least one aliphatic carboxylic acid having twelve to twenty-two carbon atoms and a calcium hydroxide product having a maximum particle size of 22 microns, (2) applying heat as necessary, (3) mixing until the reaction has progressed to the desired end point, and (4) discharging calcium carboxylate salt from the mixing zone.The disclosed process affords a novel calcium salt of a carboxylic acid such as one comprising a calcium stearate substantially free of grit, characterized by a melting range from 131.degree. C. to 159.degree. C., an ash content in the range from 9 to 12% by weight as calcuim oxide, a free fatty acid content not exceeding 1% by weight, a water soluble salt content in the range from 0.001% to 0.1% by weight, and an apparent density in the range from 15 to 25 pounds per cubic foot.