Stainless Steel GN Containers

GN containers made of stainless steel are a versatile kitchen accessory that allows the same container to be used for cooking, storage and serving. The GN standard ensures that containers are compatible with any manufacturer’s hot table, convection oven or plate warming counter.

GN standard system and sizes

The GN (Gastronorm) standard defines container sizes so that they are mutually compatible with all standard equipment. A full-size GN 1/1 container is 530 × 325 mm — all other sizes are fractions of this base dimension. A GN 1/2 (325 × 265 mm) is half of a 1/1; a GN 1/3 (325 × 176 mm) is a third; a GN 1/4 (265 × 162 mm); a GN 1/6 (176 × 162 mm); a GN 1/9 (176 × 108 mm). Containers can be freely combined — for example, in one GN 1/1 hot table slot, you can place two GN 1/2 containers or three GN 1/3 containers. Depth is chosen based on the application: 20 mm — shallow, suitable for plates and thin products; 65 mm — standard for soups and main courses; 100–150 mm — deep, for large-volume dishes; 200 mm — extra deep.

Applications and advantages

Stainless steel GN containers withstand convection oven temperatures (up to 300°C), which cannot be said for plastic or enamel alternatives. The containers are used for cooking in the oven, cold storage (down to −40°C) and serving in hot tables. Smooth inner walls make cleaning easier and prevent bacteria buildup. The thickness of the steel affects heat distribution during cooking — a thicker surface ensures more even cooking. The food-contact surface made of AISI 304 steel does not retain odours and does not affect the taste of food.

HACCP and materials

AISI 304 stainless steel is the standard material for HACCP compliant food processing and storage — the material is approved for food contact, chemically resistant to acids, salts and disinfectants. GN containers do not require protection or treatment after washing — the steel is ready for further use immediately. Washing containers in a dishwasher is a standard procedure. Regular visual inspection is useful to detect damage or deformation in time.

HoReCa use scenarios

In a canteen with a serving line, GN 1/3 and 1/2 containers in hot tables hold soups, main courses, side dishes and salads — the standardised size makes it easy to change the contents and clean the containers every day. In a restaurant kitchen, GN 1/1 containers (65 mm deep) are used as a preparation platform, a baking container in a convection oven and a storage box in the cold. In a catering business, GN containers loaded in thermal boxes transport hot meals to the event location. Also see GN containers in polypropylene for cold storage.

Frequently asked questions

Which GN depth should you choose? 65 mm — versatile, suitable for hot tables and preparation; 100 mm — deep for dishes and large volumes; 20–40 mm — shallow for products and plate stacking. BHS consultants help determine the optimal GN set based on the menu and equipment compatibility.

Which GN container material — steel or plastic? Stainless steel is more durable, suitable for high-temperature cooking and a long-term investment. Plastic is lighter, cheaper and suitable for cold storage. BHS helps you choose the right material for your application.

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.