Poly-Sperse, No. 543 is a high solids liquid chelating agent for use as a scale inhibitor during lactose processing. This unique formulation inhibits scale through crystal modification, particle dispersion, and sequestration. Poly-Sperse, No. 543 reduces the amount of process aid normally required to achieve the desired effect of minimizing scale and producing uniform lactose crystals. Poly-Sperse No. 543 may be used as a mineral scale inhibitor in the evaporative processing of beet and cane sugar juice liquor, not to exceed a maximum level of 400 ppm in the sugar juice liquor.