Abstract: Food thawing apparatus is disclosed specially adapted for used in a refrigeration appliance. An enclosure having good thermal communication with surrounding environment is provided with a pair of planar electrodes defining a food thawing zone. One of the electrodes is movable to allow insertion of a frozen food load. A high frequency, relatively low wattage power supply provides uniform energy distribution throughout the food load for gentle heating (thawing). Frequencies of 27.12 MHz or 43 MHz are suggested along with a power level of 100 watts or below, preferably 35-80 watts.A low cost, semi-automatic embodiment is also disclosed employing a compartment built into a refrigerator with a removable drawer. A drawer latch simultaneously operates to lock the drawer into place and to lower the movable electrode into contact with the food load.