A description is provided of a method for extraction of D-galactose, with the following steps: provision of an aqueous solution or suspension of galactoarabinan, wherein the aqueous solution or phase has a pH of less than or equal to 3; heating of the solution or suspension to a temperature in the range from 80 to 160.degree. C. and maintaining it at this temperature for a period in the range from 1 to 40 hours; separation of the D-galactose formed, possibly in a mixture with other substances, from the resultant product mixture.