When purchasing catering equipment we will often see products labelled with a “GN” number. GN is short for Gastronorm, which is used to measure the size of trays, pans and containers that are created to an industry standard.
Gastronorm sizes were created by the European Standards Committee as a way to standardise the container sizes in the catering industry. They help make it easier, simpler and more cost effective for manufacturers of catering equipment and the end consumer.
GN’s are available in 9 different sizes, which are based on the outer dimensions of the container. GN containers are available in a range of depths, enabling them to be used for a wide range of foodstuffs, and in various pieces of equipment like pizza prep counters.
Gastronorm pans are not only used for heating, they can also be used for storage when refrigerating, for self service display and storage for cold, ambient and hot food for service.
They are available in a variety of materials; stainless steel, polycarbonate, melamine, polypropylene and even porcelain, there is literally a gastonorm pan to suit all storage or display needs.
Gastronorm pans are modular by design. Put simply you may have a 1/1 GN Sized Well. This could be filled with a 1/1 GN pan or it could be filled with 2 x 1/2 GN pans; or 1 x 1/2GN pan and 2 x 1/4 GN Pans; or even 6 x 1/6 GN pans. Since gastronorm pans are all based on fractions, you can flexibly combine containers together to suit your needs.
Stainless Steel Gastronorm Pans are usually used for cooking, keeping food warm and chilling. They are used to keep food warm in a buffet display or bain marie.
The steel retains heat and keeps the food warm and allows you to cook food in a pan and then keep it warm afterwards without switching containers.
Polycarbonate and Polypropylene containers are often used for keeping foods refrigerated, or in a buffet display setting. They offer a flexible, strong, and sometimes transparent design that allows easier identification when being stored.
Melamine containers are a strong, lightweight, durable and thermosetting plastic. They are available in different colours, making them great for displaying and storing food. These are not suitable for use in the oven.
Porcelain gastronorm containers are suitable for hot or cold food preparation, storage and presentation in buffet displays or as an alternative to traditional stainless steel pans. They are oven, microwave, freezer and dishwasher proof.
Before you order the following should be checked;
Will it fit: Will the Gastronorm pan fit in your equipment, and vice-versa. It’s important you use pans that will fit correctly. Ensure the depth of the pan will be compatible with the equipment, these are listed on the product page.
Which material: Make sure you choose a material that is suitable for the way you’ll be using them. Some materials can be used for both cooking and refrigerating, others are best for display.
Do you need lids: Most gastronorm pans have options for lids, some with cut-outs for keeping ladles or other utensils organised.
Still unsure which is right for you?
There’s a huge amount of different types and sizes of containers to choose from. Get in touch with our experienced Caterboss team who can advise on what’s best for you.
