The invention relates to a process for the production of a sterol ester-rich composition. A sterol composition, a glyceride composition, a fatty acid alkyl ester and an esterification catalyst are combined to form a reaction mixture. Esterification of sterol(s) takes place in the mixture, providing sterol ester(s). The new process is rapid and has a high level of conversion. The invention also relates to a method for recovering food-grade sterol fatty acid ester(s) from a fat mixture.