Correct Option: B  [ starch ]
Remark:
Explanation: Saliva, secreted by the salivary glands, begins the process of carbohydrate digestion in the mouth. It contains the enzyme salivary amylase (also known as ptyalin), which catalyzes the breakdown of starch (polysaccharide) into maltose (disaccharide). This is the first step in digestion, and it occurs while food is chewed and mixed with saliva before being swallowed.
Chemical Reaction:
Starch → (Salivary amylase) → Maltose
Thus, saliva plays an essential role in the digestion of carbohydrates, making the food slightly sweet when chewed for a longer time.