Perforated GN Containers

Perforated GN containers are particularly valuable in food preparation processes where separating liquid from the product is necessary. They ensure that vegetables are rinsed of bacteria and pesticides, lean meat drains of residual juices, and pasta or noodles are fully dried after cooking. BHS supplies these containers to HoReCa businesses and catering companies.

Applications of perforated GN containers

Steaming: a perforated GN container placed over a standard container with water is the simplest and most hygienic steaming solution. Steam rises through the perforation to heat products from below. Drainage and rinsing: washing large quantities of vegetables in a washing area—products are loaded into the perforated container, rinsed, and drained without transferring to another container. Cooking: boiling pasta, rice, and other grains in a perforated GN container, then lifting them out together with the container’s contents. Cold storage: vegetables or fruits stored in a perforated container in the refrigerator—air circulates, preventing moisture condensation on the products. Drainage under the perforation principle: perforated containers are often placed inside a full standard container to collect drained liquid.

Perforation sizes and standards

Perforation size significantly affects application. Small holes (1–2 mm) are suitable for finer products (rice, small grains, small vegetables), where larger holes would cause product loss. Medium holes (4–6 mm) are more versatile, ideal for vegetables, meat, and standard products. Large holes (8–12 mm) allow faster drainage and are suitable for crackers, fruits, and larger products. Stainless steel perforation is precisely punched, with edges finished to prevent food from catching. BHS can advise on the most suitable perforation size.

HACCP and cleaning

Perforated GN containers are made from AISI 304 stainless steel—a material that meets HACCP requirements. Cleaning is slightly more challenging than with smooth containers, as food residues can accumulate in the perforations. A special perforation cleaning tool (or a brush with a jet) helps clean each hole. In a dishwasher with hot water and pressure cycles, perforated containers are cleaned effectively. Regular visual inspection identifies deformed or clogged perforations, which can hinder cleaning and pose a risk of bacterial growth. BHS provides advice on HACCP hygiene standards and the maintenance of perforated containers.

HoReCa usage scenarios

In a restaurant with a vegetable preparation station, a perforated GN 1/1 container (100 mm deep) serves as a rinsing and drainage container for large quantities of vegetables—filled with water for cleaning, then set aside to drain. In a catering business, vegetable platters steamed in perforated GN containers in a convection oven are ready to serve directly from the steaming container. In a pasta restaurant, a perforated GN container allows quick removal of cooked pasta from boiling water in large quantities. Also see standard GN containers.

Frequently asked questions

Can a perforated GN container be used in a convection oven? Yes—a stainless steel perforated GN container withstands convection oven temperatures and is ideal for steaming in a convection oven with a steam function. Flat perforated containers can also be used for baking when air circulation beneath the product is needed.

Can a perforated container be used in a bain-marie? It depends on the bain-marie’s construction—if liquid from the perforation reaches the heating zone, issues may arise. Perforated containers are generally not used directly in bain-maries; it is better to use standard smooth 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.