Barrier coating compositions, wash compositions, and other compositions for perishables and methods, systems, kits and coated items relating thereto

A method comprising:

• causing an aqueous barrier coating composition to be applied to at least a portion of a skin of a whole fruit or vegetable to form a coated whole fruit or vegetable, wherein the as-applied aqueous barrier coating composition comprises:
• an active hydrogen component comprising a lipid, wherein the lipid comprises a monoester of (i) a C12 to C20 fatty acid and (ii) a hydroxyl-functional compound other than glycerol, and wherein the monoester has a plurality of active hydrogen groups selected from carboxyl groups, acidic hydroxyl groups, salt groups thereof, or any combination thereof;
• at least 50% by weight of water;
• optionally a polyvalent metal crosslinking agent;
• and
• optionally an antimicrobial agent;
• wherein the as-applied aqueous barrier coating composition is edible, includes at least 25% by weight, based on total solids, of the monoester, and includes 10% by weight or less of total solids.