Oven Trays

Oven trays are one of the most frequently used kitchen accessories in professional HoReCa kitchens — without them, efficient baking, grilling or preparation of pastry products is impossible. Professional baking trays withstand high temperatures, are designed for intensive daily use and frequent washing, differing from household equivalents. In restaurants, bakeries, patisseries and hotel kitchens, the correct choice of trays is a fundamental element of daily kitchen efficiency and product quality.

Types and materials of trays

Aluminium oven trays are the lightest and best at conducting heat — ideal for pastry, bread products and delicate baked goods where even heat distribution is a priority. An aluminium tray heats up faster and distributes heat more evenly, reducing the risk of products burning at the edges and centre. Many aluminium baking trays have a non-stick coating, which makes it easier to remove products after baking.

Stainless steel oven trays are more robust and durable — they are suitable for roasting meat, blanching and cooking at high temperatures. A steel tray lasts longer and is resistant to abrasive cleaning. Enamelled trays combine an aesthetic appearance with sufficient durability and are popular in patisseries, where a clean, presentable tray is important, not just functional.

GN standard and compatibility

Professional oven trays are usually manufactured according to gastronorm (GN) standard sizes — GN 1/1, GN 1/2, GN 1/3 and other formats. The GN standard ensures that a tray is compatible with oven rack sizes, gastronorm systems and GN container cabinets. Trays of the same GN format can be used both for baking in the oven and for storage in the refrigerator or transport in a gastronorm system.

The depth of the tray affects the baking process — shallow trays are ideal for sponge cakes and thin portions, while deeper trays (4–8 cm) are suitable for lasagne, casseroles and dishes containing liquids. Before purchasing, it is important to specify the internal dimensions of the oven and the capacity of the racks to ensure the chosen trays match the specific oven model.

HACCP and food safety

Oven trays must comply with the requirements for materials intended for food contact in accordance with European regulatory acts and HACCP principles. Aluminium and stainless steel trays are inert in relation to food products at normal use temperatures. Non-stick coated trays should be inspected for signs of scratching after each use — a damaged coating can get into food and must be replaced.

After each work shift, trays must be washed manually or in a dishwasher according to the manufacturer's instructions. Aluminium trays are generally not suitable for the aggressive chemical effects of dishwashers and may be damaged — follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Regular inspection of tray condition is part of kitchen inventory hygiene management.

HoReCa use scenarios

In restaurant kitchens, trays designed for convection ovens are used for roasting meat, grilling vegetables and preparing garnishes in large quantities. In patisseries, aluminium baking trays are essential for producing biscuits, cakes and bread — the industrial-scale number of trays often reaches dozens or hundreds. In bakeries, GN format proofing moulds are available, used both for dough proofing and baking.

Also see GN pans and containers, pastry tools and pans for equipping your kitchen.

Frequently asked questions

Which tray is more suitable for sponge cake — aluminium or steel? For sponge cakes and fine pastry, aluminium trays with a non-stick coating are recommended — they distribute heat more evenly and reduce the risk of burning. An aluminium tray also cools down faster after baking, making it easier to remove the product and continue processing.

Can GN trays be used in the refrigerator and freezer? Yes — for most GN standard steel and aluminium trays, it is worth checking the manufacturer's specification for freezing approval. Steel GN trays usually also withstand freezing, whereas non-stick coated trays are not recommended for freezing, as the cold can accelerate the ageing of the coating.

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.