A Comprehensive Review of Quality Preservation and Processing Utilization Techniques for Fresh Sparassis latifolia During Storage and Distribution

This review comprehensively examines current and emerging technologies for maintaining quality and enhancing the processing utilization of Sparassis latifolia, a high-value edible mushroom primarily cultivated in Korea. S. latifolia is rich in β-glucan and various functional compounds, but its high moisture content and delicate texture make it highly susceptible to rapid quality deterioration during storage and distribution. This paper summarizes established freshness preservation techniques, including micro-perforated films, functional and intelligent packaging, and modified or controlled atmosphere (MA/CA) packaging. In addition, emerging technologies for non-thermal sterilization, photodynamic inactivation (PDI), and nanocomposite packaging are discussed. The review also outlines the general composition, standard specifications, and domestic quality standards for S. latifolia. Furthermore, various processing methods including hot water and ethanol extraction, hot-air drying, and freeze-drying are compared in terms of their applicability and extraction efficiency. These findings are expected to provide a practical foundation for future research aimed at improving the storability and value-added utilization of fresh S. latifolia.