Research progress on processing quality traits and suitable varieties selection of edible mushrooms

This paper systematically reviews recent advancements in processing quality traits and varietal optimization strategies for edible mushrooms, with a focus on aligning agricultural production with evolving consumer demands for nutrition and sustainability. We analyze key quality parameters influenced by diverse processing techniques and propose a germplasm selection framework integrating phenotypic adaptability and post-harvest performance. The study highlights innovative processing pathways through comparative evaluation of thermal and non-thermal technologies. Significantly, we imaginatively try to put forward an Intelligent Germplasm-Cultivation-Processing-Market Integration framework that bridges biological characteristics with market dynamics through real-time data analytics. This systems-level approach demonstrates how computational integration of consumer behavior patterns, processing parameter optimization, and genomic insights can revolutionize mushroom production chains. Our findings provide actionable insights for developing market-responsive breeding programs and establishing quality-oriented processing standards in the post-pandemic food industry. • Proposes AI-driven framework integrating fungal biology with market dynamics for cultivation optimization. • Identifies processing adaptability as key breeding criterion via thermal/non-thermal comparisons. • Introduces substrate-specific processing protocols via compatibility matrix. • Optimizes value chain through gradient processing (minimal/moderate/deep) with byproduct utilization. • Connects germplasm traits to post-harvest metrics, addressing literature gaps.