The key enzyme that helps break down starch is amylase. This enzyme catalyzes the hydrolysis of starch into simpler sugars like maltose and glucose. Amylase is present in saliva (salivary amylase) and is also produced by the pancreas (pancreatic amylase) to aid digestion in the small intestine. The action of amylase begins in the mouth, where it starts breaking down starch as food is chewed, continuing in the digestive tract as food moves through the digestive system. This process is essential for converting carbohydrates into absorbable forms of energy.