Which organ produces bile?

The liver is the organ responsible for producing bile, a crucial digestive fluid that aids in the emulsification and absorption of fats in the small intestine. Bile is composed of bile salts, cholesterol, bilirubin, electrolytes, and water. The liver's hepatocytes, or liver cells, synthesize bile continuously, which is then stored and concentrated in the gallbladder until it is needed for digestion. This production and storage system is vital for efficient fat digestion and nutrient absorption.

In contrast, the gallbladder functions primarily as a storage reservoir for bile, releasing it into the small intestine when food enters the digestive tract. The pancreas produces digestive enzymes and bicarbonate to assist in digestion but does not create bile. The small intestine is where bile performs its function but does not produce it. Understanding these roles clarifies the liver's unique contribution to the digestive system.