Choking on food is most likely caused by an interference with the proper functioning of what?

Choking on food is most likely caused by an interference with the proper functioning of the epiglottis. The epiglottis is a flap of tissue that covers the opening of the windpipe (trachea) during swallowing. When you swallow, the epiglottis closes off the trachea so that food and drink can pass safely into the esophagus. If the epiglottis does not close properly, food or drink can enter the trachea, causing choking.