PURPOSE: CMC which has not undertaken pulverization treatment is used to effect granulation under a specific water content and forming conditions, thus giving readily soluble granules of CMC with high particle strength with saved energy in high yield.

CONSTITUTION: CMC, as starting material, which has not undertaken pulverization treatment, such as crude CMC, is adjusted in its water content so that it satisfies the equation (A is water content; P is pressure at the compression molding in t/cm2; loge is natural logarithm). Then, a roller is used to effect compression forming at a pressure satisfying the equation, preferably 0.4W4ton/cm2 so that the CMC is made into flakes or sheets. Subsequently crushing and drying are conducted to give the objective CMC.

EFFECT: The disintegration of the resultant granules is low. When they are dissolved in water, its speed is high.