It’s not uncommon for vegetables to freeze in the refrigerator drawer, especially if the temperature in the drawer is too low. Here are a few things you can do to prevent your vegetables from freezing in the fridge:

1. Check the temperature:

   Checking the temperature in your refrigerator and freezer is an important step in ensuring that your food is stored at the correct temperature and stays fresh for as long as possible. Here’s how you can do it:

   1. Locate the thermometer: You’ll need a thermometer to measure the temperature in your refrigerator and freezer. You can use a digital or analog thermometer, or a thermometer built into your refrigerator.
   2. Place the thermometer: Place the thermometer in the warmest part of the refrigerator and the coldest part of the freezer. In the refrigerator, this is usually the top shelf at the back, while in the freezer, it’s usually the bottom shelf at the back.
   3. Wait for the thermometer to stabilize: Wait for at least 30 minutes for the thermometer to stabilize and give an accurate reading.
   4. Check the temperature: Check the thermometer to see if the temperature is within the recommended range. The ideal temperature for a refrigerator is between 35-38°F (1.7-3.3°C), while the ideal temperature for a freezer is between 0°F (-18°C) and -10°F (-23°C).
   5. Adjust the temperature: If the temperature is too high or too low, adjust the temperature control accordingly. Wait another 24 hours for the temperature to stabilize before checking it again.
2. Adjust Your Crisper Drawers Settings

   Adjusting the settings on your crisper drawers can help you keep your fruits and vegetables fresh for longer. Here’s what you need to do:

   1. Locate the humidity controls: Most crisper drawers have a humidity control that allows you to adjust the amount of moisture inside the drawer. Look for a slider or a dial that is marked “low” and “high.”
   2. Set the humidity to the correct level: Different types of fruits and vegetables require different levels of humidity. For example, leafy greens like lettuce and spinach need high humidity, while fruits like apples and pears need low humidity. Consult your refrigerator’s user manual to find out what humidity levels are best for the types of produce you’re storing.
   3. Check the temperature: The temperature in your crisper drawers should be between 32-40°F (0-4.4°C). Make sure the temperature is set correctly, and adjust it if necessary.
   4. Use the right drawer: Some refrigerators have two crisper drawers, one with a high-humidity setting and one with a low-humidity setting. Make sure you’re storing your fruits and vegetables in the correct drawer.
   5. Keep the drawers clean: Regularly clean your crisper drawers with warm, soapy water to remove any dirt or debris that could be affecting the freshness of your produce.
3. Use the right drawer:

   Using the right drawer in your refrigerator’s crisper compartment can help you keep your fruits and vegetables fresh for longer. Most refrigerators have two crisper drawers, one with a high-humidity setting and one with a low-humidity setting. Here’s how to use each drawer:

   1. High-humidity drawer: This drawer is designed for storing vegetables that wilt easily, such as leafy greens, broccoli, and cauliflower. These vegetables need a high level of humidity to stay fresh, so set the humidity control to high.
   2. Low-humidity drawer: This drawer is designed for storing fruits that produce ethylene gas, such as apples, pears, and avocados. Ethylene gas can cause fruits to ripen and spoil faster, so these fruits need a low level of humidity. Set the humidity control to low.
   3. Don’t mix fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables have different storage requirements and can affect each other’s freshness. Store them separately in the appropriate drawer.
   4. Keep the drawers clean: Regularly clean your crisper drawers with warm, soapy water to remove any dirt or debris that could be affecting the freshness of your produce.
4. Keep the Cooling Vents Clear

   Keeping the cooling vents clear is an important step in maintaining the optimal temperature in your refrigerator. Here’s how you can do it:

   1. Locate the cooling vents: The cooling vents are usually located in the back of the refrigerator, behind the shelves. They are designed to circulate cold air throughout the refrigerator to keep it at a consistent temperature.
   2. Remove any obstructions: Check the cooling vents to see if they are blocked by any food items or containers. If there are any obstructions, remove them to ensure that the air can flow freely.
   3. Clean the vents: Use a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner to clean the cooling vents. Dust and debris can accumulate over time, which can make the refrigerator work harder to maintain the temperature. Regular cleaning will help to ensure that the vents are clear and the refrigerator is running efficiently.
   4. Check the fridge’s position: Make sure that the refrigerator is not placed too close to the wall or other appliances, which could restrict airflow and affect the temperature.
   5. Check the fridge’s door seal: Make sure that the door seal is working properly and sealing tightly. A loose or damaged seal can allow warm air to enter the refrigerator, which can affect the temperature and cause the compressor to work harder.
5. Adjust the air vents:

   Keeping the cooling vents clear is an important step in maintaining the optimal temperature in your refrigerator. Here’s how you can do it:

   1. Locate the cooling vents: The cooling vents are usually located in the back of the refrigerator, behind the shelves. They are designed to circulate cold air throughout the refrigerator to keep it at a consistent temperature.
   2. Remove any obstructions: Check the cooling vents to see if they are blocked by any food items or containers. If there are any obstructions, remove them to ensure that the air can flow freely.
   3. Clean the vents: Use a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner to clean the cooling vents. Dust and debris can accumulate over time, which can make the refrigerator work harder to maintain the temperature. Regular cleaning will help to ensure that the vents are clear and the refrigerator is running efficiently.
   4. Check the fridge’s position: Make sure that the refrigerator is not placed too close to the wall or other appliances, which could restrict airflow and affect the temperature.
   5. Check the fridge’s door seal: Make sure that the door seal is working properly and sealing tightly. A loose or damaged seal can allow warm air to enter the refrigerator, which can affect the temperature and cause the compressor to work harder.
6. Check the Freezer Settings

   Checking the freezer settings is an important step in ensuring that your freezer is operating efficiently and keeping your food properly frozen. Here’s how you can do it:

   1. Locate the temperature control: The temperature control for the freezer is usually located inside the freezer, either on the wall or on the ceiling.
   2. Check the temperature: Make sure that the temperature is set to the recommended level. The ideal temperature for a freezer is between 0°F (-18°C) and -10°F (-23°C). If the temperature is too high or too low, adjust it accordingly.
   3. Check for obstructions: Make sure that there are no obstructions blocking the airflow inside the freezer. If the vents or shelves are blocked, it can affect the circulation of cold air and cause the freezer to work harder.
   4. Keep the freezer door closed: Make sure that the freezer door is closed tightly at all times. A loose or damaged door seal can allow warm air to enter the freezer, which can affect the temperature and cause the compressor to work harder.
   5. Defrost regularly: If you have a manual defrost freezer, make sure to defrost it regularly. Ice buildup can insulate the freezer walls and affect the temperature.
7. Store vegetables in airtight containers:

   Storing vegetables in airtight containers is a great way to keep them fresh for longer. Here’s how to do it:

   1. Choose the right container: Choose an airtight container that is the right size for the vegetables you want to store. Plastic containers with snap-on lids, glass containers with tight-fitting lids, and reusable silicone bags are all good options.
   2. Wash and dry the vegetables: Wash the vegetables thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Moisture can cause vegetables to spoil, so it’s important to remove as much moisture as possible before storing them.
   3. Cut the vegetables if necessary: If you need to cut the vegetables, do so before storing them. Cut vegetables will spoil faster than whole vegetables, so it’s best to cut them just before you’re ready to use them.
   4. Pack the container: Pack the vegetables tightly in the container, leaving as little air as possible. This will help to prevent moisture from accumulating inside the container and keep the vegetables fresh.
   5. Label and store: Label the container with the contents and the date, and store it in the refrigerator. Most vegetables will stay fresh for up to a week in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
8. Don’t overcrowd the drawer:

   Avoiding overcrowding in your refrigerator’s crisper drawer is an important step in keeping your fruits and vegetables fresh for longer. Here’s why:

   1. Air circulation: When the crisper drawer is overcrowded, it can restrict the flow of air and prevent proper circulation. This can cause moisture to build up and promote the growth of bacteria and mold, which can spoil your produce.
   2. Bruising: Overcrowding can also cause your fruits and vegetables to be squished and bruised, which can speed up the ripening process and cause them to spoil faster.
   3. Ethylene gas: Some fruits and vegetables, like apples and bananas, release ethylene gas as they ripen. When they are stored in close proximity to other produce, they can cause the other produce to ripen and spoil faster.

   To avoid overcrowding in your crisper drawer, try these tips:

   1. Use multiple drawers: If you have more produce than can fit in one drawer, use multiple drawers. This will help to prevent overcrowding and promote proper air circulation.
   2. Store produce elsewhere: Some produce, like root vegetables, can be stored in other parts of the refrigerator or at room temperature.
   3. Remove spoiled produce: Regularly check your crisper drawer for any spoiled produce and remove it promptly. This will help to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold and keep your other produce fresh for longer.

Tips on storing vegetables in the refrigerator

Here are some tips on how to store vegetables in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for as long as possible:

1. Wrap leafy greens: Leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, and kale should be wrapped in a damp paper towel or cloth before being stored in a plastic bag or container. This will help to keep them hydrated and prevent wilting.
2. Keep carrots, radishes, and celery moist: These vegetables can be stored in a plastic bag or container with a damp paper towel to help keep them hydrated and prevent them from drying out.
3. Store onions and garlic in a cool, dry place: These vegetables should not be stored in the refrigerator as they can become soft and moldy. Instead, store them in a cool, dry place such as a pantry or cupboard.
4. Keep peppers and eggplant at room temperature: These vegetables should be kept at room temperature and away from direct sunlight. They can be stored in a cool, dry place such as a countertop or cupboard.
5. Store tomatoes on the counter: Tomatoes should be stored at room temperature and away from direct sunlight. Storing them in the refrigerator can cause them to become mealy and lose their flavor.
6. Keep mushrooms in a paper bag: Mushrooms should be stored in a paper bag and kept in the refrigerator. This will help to keep them fresh by preventing moisture from accumulating.
7. Remove rubber bands from herbs: Herbs like parsley, cilantro, and basil should be stored in a plastic bag or container with a damp paper towel. Be sure to remove any rubber bands or ties to prevent them from being crushed.