Gastronorm Pans

Discover our premium range of Gastronorm Pans, designed for high-volume commercial kitchens. Whether you're storing, cooking, or serving, Gastronorm Pans ensure standardisation, durability, and efficiency across your entire operation. Perfect for catering, hospitality, and foodservice professionals who demand high-performance kitchenware.

More About Gastronorm Pans

Gastronorm Pans (GN pans) are essential in commercial catering environments due to their universal sizing system and compatibility with refrigeration, bain-maries, ovens, and hot or cold display counters. Available in a variety of sizes, depths, and materials—such as stainless steel, polycarbonate, and melamine—GN pans streamline food prep, storage, and presentation.

Common Gastronorm Sizes

  • GN 1/1: Full Size (530mm x 325mm)
  • GN 1/2: Half Size (325mm x 265mm)
  • GN 1/3, 1/4, 2/3, 2/4 and more – all designed to fit modularly

Material Differences

  • Stainless Steel: Best for hot holding, cooking, and durability
  • Polycarbonate: Transparent, lightweight, ideal for cold storage
  • Melamine: Suitable for serving and display but not oven-safe

Choosing the Right Pan Depth

GN pan depths range typically from 20mm to 200mm. Deeper pans are suited for bulk holding or slow cooking, while shallow sizes are ideal for display or service.

Compatibility Tips

  • Ensure your combi ovens and bains-marie are GN compatible
  • Use perforated pans for steaming or draining
  • Lids and inserts can help improve efficiency and food safety

Maximise ROI

Standardised GN pans reduce wastage, improve kitchen organisation, and increase turnaround time. Investing in high-grade materials extends lifespan, improving total cost efficiency.

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Gastronorm Pans FAQs

What is the difference between stainless steel and polycarbonate Gastronorm pans?

Stainless steel Gastronorm pans are ideal for cooking, oven use, and hot holding due to their high thermal conductivity and durability. Polycarbonate pans are better suited for cold storage and ingredient visibility, as they're lightweight and transparent but not heat-resistant. For high-temperature applications, stainless steel is preferred; for refrigerated prep stations, polycarbonate offers better visual control and ease of handling.

Do Gastronorm Pans require special equipment or inserts to fit into combi ovens and bain-maries?

Yes, Gastronorm Pans are designed to be compatible with GN-compliant equipment. Most combi ovens and bain-maries support standard GN sizes like GN 1/1 and GN 1/2 without modification. However, proper racking systems or container guides are essential to ensure stable placement and airflow. Always verify the depth and dimensions of both the pan and your appliance to avoid heat distribution or fitting issues.

How do you clean and maintain stainless steel Gastronorm pans for long-term use?

To maintain stainless steel GN pans, wash them with warm water and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive scrubbers or chlorine-based cleaners as they can corrode the surface. For stubborn residues, soak in a baking soda and vinegar solution. Dry pans thoroughly after washing to prevent water spots and extend their lifespan. Routine polishing can also preserve the steel’s finish and resist corrosion.

How many Gastronorm pans fit in a standard full-size combi oven?

A standard full-size combi oven (GN 1/1) typically accommodates up to 10 to 20 GN 1/1 pans depending on the model and spacing. Combi ovens with adjustable rack positions can also fit multiple smaller pans (e.g., GN 1/2, GN 1/3) when used in modular combinations. Always consult the oven’s spec sheet to determine exact pan capacity and spacing requirements.

Why are Gastronorm pans more efficient than standard kitchen containers in commercial kitchens?

Gastronorm pans offer a modular, standardised sizing system that works seamlessly across prep, cooking, serving, and storage equipment. This reduces the need for transferring food between different containers, minimising cross-contamination and saving time. Their compatibility with ovens, steamers, refrigerators, and display units streamlines kitchen flow, improves HACCP compliance, and increases operational efficiency, offering a clear ROI over non-standard containers.