A non-dispersible granular substrate remains solid when exposed to moisture is formed of a plurality of granules, each granule being a mixture including an inert mineral component, a binder formed of a reaction between cane molasses and hydrated lime, and optionally a light weight additive. A method of making a non-granular substrate includes forming a batch mixture including an inert mineral component, hydrated lime, cane molasses, water and optionally a light weight additive, and co-pelletizing the batch mixture to form a plurality of granules. The granular substrate can be used, for example, as animal bedding (e.g. cat litter).