Airtight Containers

Airtight containers are professional GN format containers with lids, designed for the safe storage and transport of food in professional kitchens. The airtight lid prevents moisture evaporation, protects food from foreign odours and bacterial contamination, and extends storage time compared to open GN containers. Such containers are essential in shock-freezing technology, food portioning and transport between kitchen departments and points of sale or service.

Materials of airtight containers

Airtight GN containers are available in various materials to suit different applications and temperature requirements. Polycarbonate — transparent plastic; withstands sterilisation up to +80°C or +121°C depending on the model; allows visual inspection of contents without removing the lid; the widest range with airtight lids. Polypropylene — often used for cold storage and shock-freezing; withstands lower temperatures; more impact-resistant; opaque or semi-transparent. Stainless steel — highest hygiene and durability; airtight lids with silicone gaskets; AISI 304 grade. Special -40°C/+190°C containers — withstand extreme temperature changes in shock-freezing and convection oven regeneration. Also explore polycarbonate GN containers.

Technical parameters and GN sizes

Airtight GN containers are manufactured in standard GN sizes according to EN 631 standards, ensuring compatibility with kitchen equipment. GN formats — 1/9, 1/6, 1/4, 1/3, 1/2, 2/3 and 1/1; all compliant with standardised GN rack or bain-marie equipment. Depth — typically 65 mm, 100 mm, 150 mm or 200 mm; shallow 20 mm and 40 mm formats for laying out meat or fish. Lid types — clip-on lid with side fasteners, folding lid or vacuum lid; choice depends on airtightness requirements. Temperature range — usually -40°C to +80°C or -40°C to +120°C depending on the material. Also explore GN containers -40/+190°C.

Types and sealing of airtight lids

The design of the airtight lid determines the container’s airtightness class and application. Clip-on lid with rubber seal — best airtight sealing; four or six side fasteners press the lid evenly; prevents liquid spillage and air infiltration; ideal for transport. Folding airtight lid — simpler design; quick opening for daily kitchen use; suitable for cold storage. HACCP compliant gaskets — silicone or EPDM rubber gaskets resistant to temperature fluctuations; replaceable without changing the container. Vacuum lid — special lids that allow partial air extraction; extend storage time for sensitive products. Also explore stainless steel GN containers.

Use of airtight containers

Airtight containers are essential in several professional kitchen processes. Food storage — airtight storage of prepared food in cold conditions between shifts; reduces moisture and aroma loss. Shock-freezing — special airtight containers resistant to rapid cooling from +80°C to -18°C; prevents condensate and juice leakage. Portioning and catering — portioned food in airtight containers for transport to events or external delivery; safe transport without spillage. Allergen isolation — airtight lid prevents cross-contamination with allergens; complies with HACCP requirements. Product labelling — airtight containers with a writable surface on the lid for easy content and date labelling.

HoReCa application scenarios

Restaurant preparation kitchen — airtight GN containers for mise-en-place storage in cold conditions overnight; food safety and HACCP compliance; product labelling with date and content. Canteen or catering company — airtight containers for portioning prepared food for transport to distribution points; prevents moisture and odour transfer to other products. Hotel kitchen with shock-freezing technology — airtight -40°C class containers for storing products after the shock-freezing cycle; safe long-term storage.

Frequently asked questions

Can airtight GN containers be used in a shock freezer? Yes — airtight containers made of polypropylene or special -40°C class materials are resistant to rapid temperature changes; check the specifications of the specific model. See GN containers -40/+190°C.

Can airtight lids be purchased separately? Yes — airtight lids are usually available separately; it is important to choose the correct GN size and model version. Also explore GN pans and containers.

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.