Polycarbonate GN Containers

Polycarbonate GN containers combine the lightness and cost-effectiveness of plastic with the advantage of transparency — contents are visible through the wall without opening the lid. This feature is especially valuable in cold rooms, where quick product identification saves time and reduces contamination risk. BHS offers polycarbonate GN containers to HoReCa businesses across Europe.

Advantages of polycarbonate over steel and polypropylene

Transparency — the main advantage of polycarbonate: contents are visible from the outside without opening the lid, which speeds up work in cold rooms and buffet preparation. Lightweight — polycarbonate is lighter than stainless steel, reducing physical strain from repeated handling. Impact resistance — polycarbonate withstands drops better than glass or ceramic. Temperature range: −40°C to +99°C for standard polycarbonate; −40°C to +140°C for special models. Cost — more economical than stainless steel, more expensive than standard polypropylene. Drawback compared to steel: not suitable for high temperatures (hot food service); absorbs food dyes and odours with intensive use. BHS helps choose the material based on application.

GN sizes and applications

GN 1/1 (530×325 mm) — full-size container, fits a full GN display or chassis. GN 1/2 (265×325 mm) — half the full size, two side by side form 1/1. GN 1/3 (176×325 mm) — one-third size, three side by side form 1/1. GN 1/4 (265×162 mm) and GN 1/6 (176×162 mm) — smaller formats for smaller portions or specific food types. GN 1/9 (176×108 mm) — the smallest standard, suitable for condiments and sauces. Depth: 65 mm (shallow), 100 mm (standard), 150 mm and 200 mm (deep) — depends on the volume and type of product stored. BHS helps select the GN size and depth based on kitchen needs.

Hygiene and HACCP

Polycarbonate GN containers are HACCP compliant — BPA-free polycarbonate is food-safe. Dishwasher-safe at +65°C — the standard for commercial cleaning. In cold rooms, product identification through the transparent wall reduces the frequency of lid opening, which minimises temperature fluctuations and contamination risk. Regular container inspection — polycarbonate becomes cloudy or cracked over time, indicating the need for replacement. HACCP labelling on containers with content, date and batch stickers is mandatory. BHS helps select HACCP compliant polycarbonate GN containers.

HoReCa usage scenarios

In catering, polycarbonate GN containers allow staff to quickly identify products without opening them, speeding up setup and buffet preparation. In restaurant cold rooms, transparent GN containers let chefs see which containers hold the required product from open doors, reducing the time with cold room doors open. In hotel buffets, polycarbonate GN containers are used for serving cold dishes on ice beds — transparency lets guests see the contents from any angle. BHS supplies polycarbonate GN containers to HoReCa businesses.

Frequently asked questions

Can polycarbonate GN containers be used for hot food? Standard polycarbonate is suitable up to +99°C — it works for bain-marie service with water temperature but is not suitable for direct use in ovens or on stovetops. Special high-temperature polycarbonate containers withstand up to +140°C. BHS advises on specific models’ temperature ranges.

Does polycarbonate absorb odours? With intensive use of strongly aromatic products (onions, garlic, fish), polycarbonate may absorb a small amount of odour. Regular cleaning with baking soda or citric acid reduces this effect. Heavily soiled containers should be replaced. BHS recommends stainless steel for intensive meat and fish storage.

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.