Why is it easier for saliva to remove sticky or salty residue from foods rather than water?

Question

Why is it easier for saliva to remove sticky or salty residue from foods rather than water?

In: 3

Answer 1

Saliva is the starting point of digestion. It has enzymes that begin to breakdown compounds in food as you chew. Saliva also has ions and electrolytes.

I don’t think the effect you’re noticing is all too distinct. But for whatever level of difference there is, it’s probably due to the enzymes in saliva breaking down the sugars or fat that are causing the stickiness (most sticky food residue is due to sugar or fat) and the ions in saliva reacting with the salt to help dissolve quicker.