The initial step in preparation of beer is

Options

A. Malting
B. Carboxylation
C. Clarification
D. Distillation

Answer

To answer the question regarding the initial step in the preparation of beer, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Beer Production**: Beer is an alcoholic beverage produced through a process known as brewing. It typically contains about 3 to 6 percent alcohol by volume.

2. **Identifying the Initial Step**: The initial step in beer preparation involves the use of cereals (such as barley) or fruit juices. These raw materials are essential for the brewing process.

3. **Role of Yeast**: The yeast, specifically *Saccharomyces cerevisiae*, plays a crucial role in the fermentation process. This yeast acts on the sugars present in the cereals or fruit juices.

4. **Fermentation Process**: Fermentation is an anaerobic process where carbohydrates are broken down without the presence of oxygen. The yeast produces enzymes, particularly a complex of enzymes known as Zymase, which helps in this breakdown.

5. **Products of Fermentation**: Through fermentation, the carbohydrates are converted into ethyl alcohol (ethanol) and carbon dioxide. This is the key chemical transformation that defines beer production.

6. **Malting**: The entire process of preparing the cereals for fermentation, which includes soaking, germination, and drying, is referred to as malting. This step is crucial as it prepares the starches in the grains for fermentation.

7. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the initial step in the preparation of beer is malting, where cereals are processed to prepare them for fermentation.

### Final Answer:
The initial step in the preparation of beer is **malting**.

---