The authors describe the in-line moisture measurement of a pharmaceutical granulation of lactose, microcrystalline cellulose and crospovidone in a fluid bed granulator–dryer using top sprayed granulating liquid. A near-infrared (NIR) prediction model was developed for moisture on spectra collected during a calibration run. Subsequent granulations were analyzed for moisture content real-time throughout the granulation and drying process using the NIR process instrument.