A method for producing a fatty acid alkyl ester for diesel fuel oil
starting with a fat/oil material such as an edible oil whereby the
qualities required of diesel fuel oil can be satisfied and the wastes
from the production process can be minimized. The method is characterized
by including subjecting a fat/oil material to transesterification with an
alcohol, washing with water the oily phase of the reaction mixture,
eliminating water after washing via absorption by a high-water-absorptive
resin, and then separating the high-water-absorptive resin gel to thereby
provide a fatty acid alkyl ester suitable for diesel fuel oil.