Where are digestive enzymes primarily produced?

Digestive enzymes are primarily produced in the pancreas, which plays a critical role in the digestive process. The pancreas secretes a variety of enzymes that are essential for breaking down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in the small intestines. Enzymes such as amylase, lipase, and proteases are secreted in an inactive form into the duodenum, the first section of the small intestine, where they become activated and assist in digestion.

While the stomach also produces enzymes (like pepsin) to help digest food in an acidic environment, the pancreas is the main source of the enzymes needed for nutrient absorption. The liver produces bile, which is important for fat digestion but does not directly produce digestive enzymes. The small intestine does not produce enzymes at the same level as the pancreas; instead, it is where the enzymes from the pancreas act on the food being digested. Therefore, the pancreas is correctly identified as the primary site of digestive enzyme production.