GN Pans and Containers

GN containers are not just containers – they are a kitchen organisation system. Standardised sizes ensure that all containers fit convection ovens, bain-maries, refrigerator shelves and buffet display cases. A professional kitchen cannot operate efficiently without the GN standard for preparation, storage and serving. BHS offers a full range of GN containers for all usage scenarios in Europe.

GN container sizes and standards

The GN standard specifies that the base container size is GN 1/1: 530 × 325 mm. All other sizes are derived from this: GN 1/2 (265 × 325 mm), GN 1/3 (176 × 325 mm), GN 1/4 (162 × 265 mm), GN 2/3 (354 × 325 mm) and the large GN 2/1 (650 × 530 mm). Depths range from 20 mm (shallow serving dishes) to 200 mm (deep storage containers). This standardisation means that all BHS GN containers are compatible with any manufacturer’s professional equipment using the GN system.

Materials and their applications

BHS offers GN containers in several materials suited to their use. Stainless steel GN containers are the most durable, ideal for oven cooking, bain-maries and convection, and easy to clean. Polycarbonate GN containers are transparent, lightweight, and suitable for cold zones and refrigerator storage. Polypropylene GN containers come with lids, making them ideal for storage and transport. Melamine GN containers are aesthetic and perfect for buffet serving. Perforated GN containers are designed for draining and steam processing. Serving dishes for display cases are used for presentation in commercial displays.

HACCP and hygiene in the GN container system

The GN standard is designed with HACCP principles in mind – standardised sizes simplify labelling, tracking of each portion and rotation control. Transparent polycarbonate containers with lids allow content visibility without opening, reducing contamination risks. All materials used for BHS GN containers comply with European food contact requirements. Steel containers withstand sterilisation temperatures and can be washed in dishwashers. Regular container replacement – scratched or damaged GN containers must be discarded – is a mandatory hygiene requirement.

HoReCa usage scenarios

In restaurants, GN pans and containers are used both for food preparation in the oven and for organising mise-en-place in the kitchen. In dining areas, GN containers are the foundation of serving counters – each DROP-IN opening in a marble or hot surface holds a matching GN container with ready-to-serve food. In hotel breakfast zones, GN pans and containers in melamine or stainless steel ensure an attractive presentation of products. In food production and processing, GN containers standardise every stage of the preparation process. The BHS helps select the right sizes and materials of GN pans and containers for specific equipment and usage scenarios.

Frequently asked questions

Do all GN containers have the same sizes regardless of the manufacturer? Yes, the GN standard is international (DIN 66075 / EN 631), and all compliant GN containers are mutually compatible regardless of the manufacturer. A GN 1/2 container from any compatible manufacturer fits into a GN 1/1 opening.

Which GN container material is recommended for cold storage needs? For refrigerator and freezer storage, polycarbonate or polypropylene containers with lids are most suitable – they are transparent (for content visibility), lightweight and resistant to negative temperatures. Explore the airtight containers range for maximum freshness retention.

Why choose BHS?

BHS – Baltic HoReCa Solutions supplies professional equipment for restaurants, cafés, hotels and canteens: more than 20,000 products from many manufacturers. Our specialists help you choose the right equipment and spare parts for your kitchen or bar.

Delivery

We deliver across the European Union. Delivery time and cost depend on the order volume and destination — contact the BHS team for an exact price and lead time.