Genistin and daidzin malonates are obtained by extracting ground soya bean with methanol or ethanol to obtain an extract. The extract is buffered to a pH of 6 to 9 and then extracted with a water-immiscible solvent. The aqueous phase is recovered, acidified to a pH of 2 to 5.4, and then extracted with a water-immiscible solvent. The organic phase is recovered, neutralized to a pH of 6.8 to 7.2, and the malonates are separated therefrom.