PURPOSE: To produce corresponding alcohols in a high selectivity by hydrogenating α-hydroxy ketones, especially dihydroxy acetone, in a liquid phase in the presence of a carboxylic acid.

CONSTITUTION: When α-hydroxy ketones (preferably dihydroxy acetone, eruthrulose, etc.) are hydrogenated in a liquid phase in the presence of a heterogeneous hydrogenation catalyst (preferably Raney nickel, Harshow nickel on alumina) and hydrogen, the reaction is implemented in the presence of carboxylic acid (preferably acetic, lactic acid, citric acid, etc.) to obtain corresponding alcohols (preferably glycerin, methyl glycerin, etc.). The hydrogenation is preferably implemented at a hydrogen partial pressure of 10-30000 kpa and at 150°C. This method is simple and less expensive, raw materials are easily available, and the products are separated and purified easily. Even when a small amount of formaldehyde is contaminated, high selectivity can be maintained to be advantageous.