the shelf life of fresh harvest produce is extended by coating the exterior surface of freshly harvested produce with a coating composition comprising an aqueous emulsion of polyvinylidene chloride copolymers containing from about 0 . 25 to 25 % by weight of copolymer solids to water and between 0 . 001 and 20 % plasticizer preferably a polyethylene oxide based additive such as triton - x to weight of copolymer solids in the emulsion . the coating may also contain biocides as well to control bacteria and fungal growth on the post harvest produce during storage , shipping , distribution , and sale of the product . the coating composition is effective in extending the shelf life of produce .