The latency of mechanical pulp is removed in a quick and simple manner. After refining of comminuted cellulosic material to produce mechanical pulp, the pulp is diluted (if necessary) to a consistency of between about 8-25%, and the pulp is then merely pumped to a further treatment stage. Pumping is effected utilizing a centrifugal pump which fluidizes the pulp, the fluidization imparting sufficient energy to the pulp to remove the latent properties. The pulp may be pumped to a storage stage prior to passage to a screening stage, and can be pumped in a direct (non-return) path from the pump to the screening stage. If desired or necessary, a portion of the pumped pulp can be recirculated and pumped again to ensure that sufficient energy is imparted thereto to effect latency removal.