The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver. Its main function is to store and concentrate bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver. Bile plays a crucial role in digesting fats and is released into the small intestine when you eat, especially when consuming fatty foods. When food enters the digestive tract, the gallbladder releases bile into the small intestine to help break down fats, making it easier for the body to absorb fat-soluble vitamins and nutrients.