Feng Kong, Hongrun Lu, Yue Li, Nurbiya Memetimin, Shengshun Chen
Due to the impermeable nature of spore walls, untreated Ganoderma lucidum spores (GLS) require structural modification prior to ingestion. This critical step is essential to overcome the physical barrier limiting access to valuable bioactive molecules within the spore matrix. We investigated the impact of ultra-high pressure (UHP) processing on microstructure, chemical composition, and key physicochemical attributes of GLS powder. Results showed that UHP successfully deformed the spore architecture, transforming the native pear-shaped morphology into an irregular and coarse surface while decreasing degrees of crystallinity. Crucially, these modifications significantly elevated levels of crude polysaccharides, total triterpenoids, and total phenolics. Concurrent enhancements were observed in both hydration behavior (water holding capacity, solubility) and powder flow properties (bulk/tapped density, Carr’s index, Hausner’s ratio). Principal component analysis pinpointed 15 min as the optimal treatment time. Moreover, when dispersed in aqueous xanthan gum systems, UHP-modified GLS demonstrated superior dispersion stability and viscoelastic characteristics, highlighting its potential utility in formulating novel liquid functional foods. This study demonstrates that UHP is a promising technology capable of tailoring GLS structures to unlock its functional potential. The findings provide a scientific foundation for the application of UHP in developing high-value and bioactive-rich GLS products for the functional food industry. • Ultra-high pressure (UHP) is used to Ganoderma lucidum spore (GLS) modification. • UHP induces architecture deformation and crystallinity reduction of GLS. • Structural breakdown significantly enhances the release of bioactive compounds. • Hydration and flow properties of GLS powder are markedly improved. • UHP-treated GLS powder shows superior dispersion stability in xanthan gum solution.