Objective To address the issues of poor flowability and high hygroscopicity of fermented Cordyceps powder, the particle size gradation strategy and investigates the relationship between flowability parameters, particle size, and particle size distribution, so as to provide theoretical support and technical guidance for enhancing powder performance and optimizing processing strategies. Methods A laser particle size analyzer, powder characteristics tester, and powder rheometer were employed to systematically characterize the particle size distribution, static flowability parameters (angle of repose, Hausner ratio, and flat plate angle, etc.), and rheological properties (flow energy, aeration, permeability, and shear behavior) of the fermented Cordyceps powder. The effects of different particle size ratios on powder packing behavior and hygroscopicity were analyzed. Results Particle size is a critical factor affecting powder flowability. A particle size ratio of 24-80 (95:5) mesh yielded optimal packing performance. Hygroscopic kinetics modeling showed that both the double exponential and Weibull models provided good fits for describing the moisture absorption behavior of powders with different particle sizes, offering quantitative indicators of hygroscopicity. Conclusion Particle size gradation design provides a new strategy for improving the flowability and stability of fermented Cordyceps powder.

fermented Cordyceps powder  /  powder  /  particle size gradation  /  fluidity  /  hygroscopicity