Abstract: A batch and continuous process is disclosed for the production of a composition comprising alkali metal salts of C.sub.8 -C.sub.22 alkyl fatty monocarboxylic acid and C.sub.8 -C.sub.22 acyl isethionate in a ratio of 20:1 to 1:0.98. Both batch and continuous routes require that the saponifying aqueous caustic solution includes sodium hydroxide and sodium isethionate maintained as a hot solution at a temperature of from 180.degree. F. to about 200.degree. F. For the batch route, the sequence of steps require the caustic solution to be added slowly to the fatty acid. In the continuous process, it is advantageous to introduce fatty acid upstream from the point where the caustic solution stream enters the mixing chamber.