A process for preparing acylglycinates of the formula (I) wherein R1 is a linear or branched, saturated alkanoyl group having 6 to 30 carbon atoms, or is a linear or branched, singly or multiply unsaturated alkenoyl group having 6 to 30 carbon atoms, and Q+ is a cation, wherein glycine is reacted with fatty acid chloride R1Cl, in water and in the presence of a basic alkali metal compound which yields cations Q+, but in the absence of organic solvents, at 25 50 ° C. Also described are compositions comprising acylglycinates of the formula (I).
