WTF is a Vegetable Crisper (and How Do I Use It?)

Crisper drawers—all refrigerators have them, but most owners can’t explain their exact purpose. Many Hoosiers use at least one as their “cheese drawer” catch-all for favorite dairy delights. But a micro masterclass on crisper drawers can curb food waste and maximize even the most delicate of produce. So, what exactly is a vegetable crisper? 

Crisper drawers are a double threat in the kitchen, controlling humidity and ethylene gases. Many refrigerators have vents on crisper drawers that allow the user to set their desired level of humidity: closed vents for higher humidity and open vents for lower humidity. Indiscriminately dumping fruits and vegetables into crisper drawers without understanding how they work actually speeds up spoilage. 

High-humidity crisper drawers are ideal for the more melodramatic members of the produce family. Thin-skinned or leafy greens like asparagus and fresh herbs lose moisture fast and wilt even faster without proper humidity. Once the organic Italian parsley comes out of the grocery bag and hits the refrigerator, it seems like it begins wilting out of spite, but in a high-humidity drawer, natural moisture is maintained. 

Low-humidity crisper drawers are hospitable for produce that generates high levels of ethylene gas. Produce like apples, avocados, and peaches all emit ethylene gas that accelerates the ripening process. An open vent in a crisper drawer allows the gas to escape. Isolating high-ethylene produce and their “negative aura” from sensitive produce like broccoli, carrots, and celery can ensure the longevity of all. 

Proper use of crisper drawers saves money, saves produce, and saves users the headache of pivoting dinner plans due to unexpected rot. In addition to separating those high-ethylene items from the herd, consumers can take additional steps to give their crisper drawers a helping hand: 

• Do not wash produce until you are ready to use it. Excess moisture can lead to rot. 
• Always remove produce from any plastic packaging for better humidity control. 
• Always keep drawers ⅔ full for maximized air flow. 
• If you have only one crisper drawer, set the humidity to high and keep high-ethylene produce isolated elsewhere in the refrigerator.