New Edible Food Coatings Technology Description: The invention is an edible coating for fruits, vegetables, and other foods using food-grade polyvinyl acetate. Polyvinyl acetate is a synthetic polymer that is used as an ingredient in chewing gum. The invention is a replacement for shellac, which is commonly used to give fruits and vegetables a glossy appearance. The coating can be applied to fruits and vegetables by dipping, spraying or brushing. Polyvinyl acetate is about 30 percent less expensive than shellac, and more effective than shellac at preventing postharvest fruit decay without discoloring the fruit. In addition to fruits and vegetables, these compositions can be used as coatings for candy and baked goods to obtain a glossy appearance. Fruit and vegetable coatings using the invention’s compositions do not whiten or ‘blush’ after contact with water. In addition to the polyvinyl acetate, the fresh produce coating can include plasticizers, surfactants that aid coverage, gloss-enhancing additives, and other ingredients for specific uses. This technology is applicable to the fruit, vegetable and confectionary industry. Reference: Please refer to Patent Number 6,162,475, "Edible Food Coatings Containing Polyvinyl Acetate," which issued December 19, 2000. Inventors: Robert D. Hagenmaier Quality Improvement in Citrus & Subtropical Products Winter Haven, FL 33883 (863) 293-4133 / Fax: (863) 299-8678    Karel Grohmann (retired)