wheat Qu metagenome

Spontaneous solid-state fermentation (SSF) of wheat Qu starters was conducted at a traditional Huangjiu distillery in Gansu Province, China (36 76N, 107 68E). A distinct plum petal texture was achieved in the crushed wheat, ensuring a soft core with an intact exterior optimal for fermentation. The wheat mixture was moistened with approximately 35 water, shaped into bricks (18 cm x 18 cm x 10 cm), and stacked in the fermentation room. Wheat straw was used to separate the bricks, ensuring proper aeration and temperature control. The control group (CK) was incubated for one month. In the medium-temperature Bupleurum wheat Qu (MB group), Bupleurum extract replaced water during preparation. The high-temperature Bupleurum wheat Qu (HB group) was prepared similarly, with a thermostat providing heat during the first seven days. Samples were collected from different levels within the fermentation room to account for environmental variations. Two batches of fermented wheat Qu from each treatment were collected in their final form before use. To ensure consistency and reliability, all samples were processed in triplicate, ground into 50-mesh powder under sterile conditions on an AIRTECH clean bench to prevent contamination, and stored at -80C for preservation.