Gastric juice is a liquid produced by the stomach which is essential for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients. It is made up of hydrochloric acid, enzymes (such as pepsin), water and salts.

Gastric juices contain acids, enzymes, and mucus that help digest food in your stomach. The hydrochloric acid in gastric juice lowers your stomach's pH and kills bacteria. Intrinsic factor in gastric ...