Which of the following best describes the salivary glands?

Salivary glands are specialized exocrine glands that play a crucial role in the digestive process by producing saliva. Saliva contains enzymes such as amylase, which begin the breakdown of carbohydrates, and it also helps in lubricating food to facilitate swallowing. This role is vital for initial digestion, as it allows food to be processed more effectively before it moves on to the stomach for further digestion.

The other options do not correctly define the function of salivary glands. While bile is secreted by the liver and is involved in the digestion of fats, salivary glands do not have this function. Nutrient extraction is primarily the role of the intestines, where nutrients from digested food are absorbed into the bloodstream. The neutralization of stomach acid is achieved by substances such as bicarbonate produced by the pancreas; thus, this function is not related to the salivary glands.