What is the function of the gallbladder?

The gallbladder functions primarily to store bile, which is produced by the liver. Bile plays a critical role in the digestive process by helping to emulsify fats, making them easier to digest and absorb in the small intestine. When food enters the small intestine, particularly fatty foods, the gallbladder releases bile into the digestive system to aid in the digestion process. Therefore, its key role is not in the production of bile itself, which is the job of the liver, but rather in temporarily storing it until it is needed for digestion. This storage function allows the body to concentrate bile and release it in larger quantities as required during digestion, contributing to efficient fat digestion and absorption.