The addition of 1/2% of 1% "VANESTA" (on the weight of the starch) to the starch suspension before cooking and converting effectively prevents this thickening and results in starch products of stable viscosity and excellent film-forming properties. Such dispersions flow readily at high starch concentrations and spread easily into thin continuous non-gelatinous films. They mix readily into clay or pigment dispersions without lumping and are relatively free from foam or entrained air.