Gastronorm

Standard, Specifications, and Applications

The Gastronorm (GN) standard is a standardized measurement system used in the foodservice and catering industry for manufacturing and organizing compatible containers, trays, and equipment. Defined by the EN 631 regulation, Gastronorm ensures interchangeability between kitchen utensils and appliances, optimizing food storage, preparation, and service.

Due to its global adoption, the Gastronorm standard is essential for professional kitchens, canteens, hotels, catering services, and restaurants, allowing for efficient and safe food management.

Technical Features and Standard Sizes

The Gastronorm standard defines a series of modular sizes that ensure compatibility between different kitchen tools. The base measurement is GN 1/1 (530 × 325 mm), from which all other fractioned sizes derive.

Main Gastronorm Sizes

GN FormatDimensions (mm)Proportion to GN 1/1
GN 2/1 650 × 530 2 × GN 1/1
GN 1/1 530 × 325 Reference size
GN 2/3 354 × 325 2/3 of GN 1/1
GN 1/2 325 × 265 Half of GN 1/1
GN 1/3 325 × 176 1/3 of GN 1/1
GN 1/4 265 × 162 1/4 of GN 1/1
GN 1/6 176 × 162 1/6 of GN 1/1
GN 1/9 108 × 176 1/9 of GN 1/1

Available heights generally range between 20 mm and 200 mm, adapting to various storage and cooking needs.

Available Materials

Gastronorm trays and containers come in different materials, each with specific advantages:

  • Stainless steel: Durable, hygienic, perfect for high temperatures.

  • Polycarbonate: Transparent, lightweight, ideal for refrigeration.

  • Polypropylene: Affordable, suitable for cold storage.

  • Porcelain and ceramic: Elegant, perfect for buffet service.

  • Non-stick aluminum: Great for cooking but less resistant to wear.

Applications and Best Practices

The Gastronorm system is widely used in various food preparation stages:

Key Uses of the Gastronorm Standard

  • Cooking: GN stainless steel or non-stick trays are oven-compatible.

  • Storage: GN containers in polycarbonate or polypropylene fit refrigerators and blast chillers.

  • Transport: In catering, GN containers facilitate food transport in warming cabinets and thermal carts.

  • Display: In buffets, ceramic and stainless steel containers enhance food presentation.

Practical Tips for Choosing the Right Gastronorm Container

✔ Choose the material based on use: Stainless steel for cooking, polycarbonate for refrigeration.
✔ Optimize space: Use modular GN sizes for better food organization and stacking.
✔ Check compatibility: Ensure your GN containers fit the appliances you use.
✔ Maintain cleanliness: Regularly sanitize GN containers to ensure food safety.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

❓ What is the Gastronorm standard?
The Gastronorm standard is a measurement system for professional kitchen containers and equipment, regulated by the EN 631 norm.

❓ What are the benefits of the Gastronorm standard?
It ensures compatibility between equipment, optimizes space and food management, simplifies logistics, and reduces operational costs.

❓ Are Gastronorm sizes universal?
Yes, the standard is internationally recognized and used in restaurants, catering, and canteens worldwide.

❓ Which material should I choose for GN containers?
It depends on the use: stainless steel for cooking, polycarbonate for storage, ceramic for serving.

❓ Where can I buy Gastronorm containers?
They are available from specialized foodservice equipment suppliers, both in physical stores and online.

Gastronorm

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