Abstract: A pelleting line incorporates a flash dryer in order to permit processing of coarsely ground particulate feed material under optimum conditions at all stages of processing. By conditioning using steam having higher than normally optimum moisture content and temperature, an increased gradient of moisture and temperature can be maintained from surface of the feed material particle to its center. The conditioning can be accomplished in approximately the same time as that required for finely ground feed material. Thus starch conversion, salmonella destruction, and shear strength adjustment are each optimized for the pellet production process. Because it permits processing of coarsely ground feed material, incorporation of the flash dryer in the pelleting line reduces grinding costs and eliminates down time of the pelleting line caused by plugging of the pelletizing mill and/or the necessity to purge the feed material conditioner.