Problem: Function of the digestive system 1) Glands produce saliva to mix with the food. 2) The epiglottis covers the trachea to prevent food from going into the airway. 3) Muscles in the pharynx contract and force food further down the canal. 4) Mastication occurs. 5) Chyme is produced. 6) The pyloric sphincter controls movement of chyme into the small intestine. 7) Food enters the stomach and mixes with gastric juice. 8) Nutrients and water are absorbed through the small intestine's wall. 9) The large intestine absorbs water and turns undigested matter into feces. 10) Enzymes in saliva start to break down food. 11) Feces are stored in the sigmoid colon and rectum. Need Assignment Help?