Which of the following best describes the natural process that occurs during malting?

The natural process described during malting is accurately represented by the idea that a seed begins to grow into a new plant. Malting involves soaking grains, typically barley, in water which activates enzymes and starts the germination process. During this phase, the seed swells, and metabolic processes begin, eventually leading to the emergence of the sprout.

This controlled germination is essential for developing enzymes that will later convert the grain's starches into fermentable sugars during the brewing process. Therefore, this option aligns perfectly with the malting process, which is vital for beer production.

In contrast, the other options do not relate to malting. For example, the production of seeds in flowers pertains more to plant reproduction than to the specific enzymatic and growth processes involved in malting. The transportation of fruit by animals relates to seed dispersal, not germination. Lastly, the decay of a living plant does not reflect the vigorous life processes of germination, which is central to malting. Thus, the option that the seed begins to grow into a new plant is the most accurate description of the natural malting process.