What are lysosomes often referred to as?

Lysosomes are often referred to as the "digestive system of the cell" because their primary function is to break down waste materials and cellular debris. They contain a variety of digestive enzymes that enable them to digest food particles, bacteria, and damaged organelles. This process is vital for maintaining cellular health, as it ensures that waste is removed and that the cell can recycle its components effectively. By breaking down these materials, lysosomes help keep the internal environment of the cell clean and functional, similar to how an organism's digestive system processes and eliminates waste.