Whether you run a hotel kitchen, cloud kitchen, restaurant, or catering service, you’ve likely come across the term GN Pan. These pans are a backbone of modern professional kitchens—but many beginners aren’t sure what they actually are, how they’re sized, or how to choose the right ones.
This beginner-friendly guide explains everything you need to know, with insights from Steello, one of the leading GN pan manufacturers known for durable, food-grade kitchenware.
What Are GN Pans?
GN pans, or Gastronorm pans, are standardized containers used across commercial food service. Their universal sizing ensures they fit perfectly into almost all commercial kitchen equipment, such as:
- Refrigerators and freezers
- Steam tables
- Bain-maries
- Hot-holding cabinets
- Prep counters
- Buffet lines
This standardization simplifies storage, preparation, cooking, and serving—one of the reasons Steello GN pans are widely used in professional kitchens globally.
Why GN Pans Were Standardized
Before GN pans, equipment manufacturers designed their own container sizes, leading to misfitting trays and inefficient storage.
To fix this, the European Standard EN 631 introduced the Gastronorm system, ensuring all pans and equipment follow one universal measurement.
Today, Steello manufactures GN pans that strictly follow these international standards for maximum compatibility and performance.
GN Pan Sizes Explained
The GN system is based on the GN 1/1 full-size pan. Other sizes are fractions of this standard.
| GN Size | Approx. Dimensions | Typical Use |
|---|
| GN 1/1 | 530 × 325 mm | Full-size steam tables, hotels |
| GN 1/2 | 325 × 265 mm | Prep, storage, salads |
| GN 1/3 | 325 × 176 mm | Ingredients, toppings |
| GN 1/4 | 265 × 162 mm | Sauces, dips |
| GN 1/6 | 176 × 162 mm | Garnishes, small portions |
| GN 1/9 | 108 × 176 mm | Condiments, seasoning items |
They also come in multiple depth options:
- 20 mm
- 40 mm
- 65 mm
- 100 mm
- 150 mm
- 200 mm
Steello manufactures all major GN sizes and depths, ensuring you always find the correct fit for your kitchen.
Types of GN Pans
Different materials serve different needs. Here are the most common types:
1. Stainless Steel GN Pans
These are the most durable and heat-resistant option.
Ideal for:
- Cooking
- Steaming
- Baking
- Hot holding
Steello’s stainless steel GN pans are known for:
- Corrosion resistance
- High temperature tolerance
- Long-lasting durability
- Premium polished finish
2. Polycarbonate GN Pans
Lightweight, transparent, and ideal for cold areas.
Best for:
- Cold storage
- Ingredient display
- Salad bars
Steello’s polycarbonate pans are shatter-resistant and easy to clean, making them a favorite among cloud kitchens and cafés.
3. Perforated GN Pans
Feature small holes for:
- Steaming
- Draining
- Washing vegetables
Steello offers stainless steel perforated GN pans with reinforced edges for added durability.
Where GN Pans Are Used
GN pans are essential in:
✔ Restaurants & Fast Food
For prep, storing ingredients, and quick line operations.
✔ Hotels & Banquets
For buffets, hot and cold stations.
✔ Cloud & Delivery Kitchens
For portion control, speed, and seamless workflows.
✔ Catering Services
Safe transportation and organized food handling.
✔ Bakeries & Cafés
Storing toppings, dough, and sauces.
Steello GN pans are widely preferred in these sectors due to their reliability and food-safe build quality.
Benefits of Using GN Pans
Here’s why GN pans are a must-have:
1. Universally Compatible
Fits into any Gastronorm-standard equipment.
2. Space-Saving
Stackable, nestable, and easy to organize.
3. Hygienic & Food-Safe
Steello ensures all pans meet strict hygiene and safety standards.
4. Time Efficient
Easy to move, clean, and use during service.
5. Highly Durable
Steello stainless steel pans resist dents and corrosion even with heavy commercial use.
How to Choose the Right GN Pan
When selecting GN pans, consider:
- Material: Stainless steel (for heat), polycarbonate (for storage)
- Size: Based on equipment and space
- Depth: Depending on food volume
- Food-grade quality: Steello products comply with international standards
- Finish & durability: Anti-jam edges, reinforced corners
For most kitchens, a combination of GN 1/1, GN 1/2, and GN 1/3 pans from Steello is a reliable starter set.
Final Thoughts
GN pans may seem simple, but they play a major role in kitchen efficiency, safety, and organization. Understanding their sizes, materials, and uses helps you build a smooth, professional workflow.
If you’re setting up or upgrading your kitchen, choosing high-quality GN pans is one of the smartest investments you can make.
Why Choose Steello GN Pans?
Steello is a trusted manufacturer of premium GN pans made from food-grade stainless steel and durable polycarbonate. Designed for hotels, restaurants, cloud kitchens, and catering services, Steello products are:
- Strong, reliable, and long-lasting
- Manufactured with strict quality control
- Available in all GN sizes and depths
- Compatible with international Gastronorm standards
Upgrade your kitchen with Steello’s high-performance GN pans—built for professionals who expect the best.