Frequently Asked Questions
Gastronorm containers are an essential part of every professional kitchen, providing a standardised solution for food preparation, cooking, storage and service. Below, we've answered some of the most commonly asked questions about gastronorms and their use in hospitality environments.
What are gastronorms?
Gastronorms, often called GN pans or gastronorm containers, are standardised food containers used throughout the hospitality industry for food preparation, cooking, storage, transport and service. Manufactured in a range of standard sizes based on the GN 1/1 format, they are designed to fit a wide variety of commercial equipment, including ovens, refrigerated counters, bain maries and food display units.
What are gastronorm pans used for?
Gastronorm pans are used for food preparation, cooking, storage, transport, display and service in commercial kitchens. Their standardised sizes allow them to move easily between ovens, refrigerated counters, bain maries, food display units and transport systems without transferring food to another container.
What are gastronorms made from?
Gastronorm containers are commonly manufactured from stainless steel, polycarbonate or melamine, depending on their intended use. Stainless steel gastronorms are ideal for cooking and hot food service, while polycarbonate gastronorms are lightweight, transparent and perfect for cold food storage and preparation. The best material depends on your kitchen's requirements and the type of food being handled.
Can gastronorms be used in combi ovens?
Yes, stainless steel gastronorms are commonly used in combi ovens and are designed to fit seamlessly within the standardised Gastronorm system. Always check the manufacturer's specifications to ensure the gastronorm is suitable for your equipment.
Can gastronorm pans go from the freezer to the oven?
yes, many stainless steel gastronorm pans are designed to withstand a wide range of temperatures and can be used from the freezer to the oven, making them ideal for commercial kitchens. Always check the manufacturer's specifications before use, as suitability may vary depending on the material and product.
Can polycarbonate gastronorms be heated?
Polycarbonate gastronorms are suitable for a range of food preparation and storage tasks, but they are generally intended for cold food applications rather than high-temperature cooking. Many can withstand temperatures from -40°C to +100°C or +110°C, depending on the product. Always check the manufacturer's specifications to confirm the recommended temperature range and intended use.
Are gastronorms dishwasher safe?
Yes, many commercial gastronorms are dishwasher safe. Always follow the manufacturer's care instructions to help maintain their appearance and maximise their lifespan.
Where can I buy gastronorms?
You can buy commercial gastronorms from IG Group. We supply a wide range of stainless steel gastronorms, polycarbonate gastronorms and GN containers for restaurants, hotels, cafes, schools, care homes and catering businesses.
Whether you're preparing, cooking, storing or serving food, gastronorm containers help improve efficiency across every stage of a commercial kitchen. Explore our range of stainless steel and polycarbonate gastronorms to find durable, professional solutions for hospitality businesses across the UK.
