Question:

Chemical digestion of which one of the following starts first in human alimentary canal?

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Remember: Digestion starts in the mouth with amylase acting on starch. No protein digestion occurs in the mouth.
Updated On: May 8, 2026
  • Proteins
  • Starch
  • Lipids and fats
  • Cellulose
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation


Concept: Chemical digestion in humans begins in the mouth with the action of enzymes present in saliva.
• Saliva contains the enzyme salivary amylase (ptyalin).
• This enzyme breaks down starch (a complex carbohydrate) into simpler sugars like maltose.
• Other food components such as proteins and fats are digested later in the stomach and intestine.

Step 1:
Identify where digestion begins.
Chemical digestion starts in the mouth during mastication (chewing).

Step 2:
Determine which nutrient is digested first.
Salivary amylase acts specifically on starch, initiating its digestion.

Step 3:
Analyze other options.
• (A) Proteins: Digestion begins in stomach by pepsin
• (B) Starch: Digestion begins in mouth (correct)
• (C) Lipids: Digestion mainly in small intestine
• (D) Cellulose: Not digested in humans

Step 4:
Conclusion.
Thus, starch is the first food component to undergo chemical digestion. Final Answer: Option (B)
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