What does GN mean in the catering industry?
What does ‘Gastronorm’ mean?
The term Gastronorm describes the size of standardised catering containers. GN containers are stackable and versatile. The GN standard was established on 17 November 1964 by the Swiss Association for Hospital, Home and Community Catering and the Swiss Hoteliers Association. Since 1993, there has also been the European standard EN 631-1:1993 for food containers. In Germany, the properties of the containers are also regulated by DIN 66075.
Gastronorm – in which areas is the standard used?
GN containers have become indispensable in catering, kitchens and food processing. They are used to store ingredients, present food at buffets and keep prepared dishes warm. The containers are standardised and offer different litre capacities, as they are available in different depths and sizes. Thanks to their standardised external dimensions, they fit into almost any compatible catering appliance – regardless of the manufacturer.
Typical areas of application are:
- Chafing dishes
- Bain-maries
- Combi steamers
- Ovens and cooking kettles
- Refrigerators and cooling units
- Buffet systems and serving trolleys
Depending on the application, there are suitable lids – closed or with a spoon recess.
Dimensions and sizes of Gastronorm
The basic dimensions of Gastronorm 1/1 (GN 1/1) are 530 x 325 mm. All other sizes are derived from this and are specified as fractions of the basic dimensions. This makes it easy to combine smaller containers with each other.
Typical dimensions:
- GN 1/9 : 108 x 176 mm
- GN 1/6 : 176 x 162 mm
- GN 1/4 : 265 x 163 mm
- GN 1/3 : 325 x 176 mm
- GN 1/2 : 325 x 265 mm
- GN 2/3 : 354 x 325 mm
- GN 1/1 : 530 x 325 mm
- GN 2/1 : 650 x 530 mm
What are the advantages of Gastronorm dimensions?
Standardised Gastronorm containers offer catering businesses the following benefits:
- Uniform storage and transport solutions
- Greater efficiency in food preparation
- Compatibility with a wide range of appliances
- Optimised use of storage space and cooling surfaces
- Simplified container cleaning
GN containers enable professional, time-saving work – a real added value for every professional kitchen and buffet.
What are the special features of GN containers?
GN containers are available in various materials, including:
- Stainless steel
- Plastic (polypropylene)
- Melamine
- Porcelain
The containers are also available in perforated or closed designs – with or without handles. GN trays, GN platters and special versions with lids and recesses are also part of the range. This allows the containers to be flexibly adapted to any kitchen situation.
Important to know: The GN standard only specifies the external dimensions – minor differences in corner radii or stackability may occur depending on the manufacturer. The GN standard should also not be confused with the Euro standard (EN).
GN in catering – standard with system
The abbreviation GN stands not only for a well-designed container standard, but also for efficiency, flexibility and hygiene in everyday catering. Thanks to the clearly defined Gastronorm dimensions, work processes can be significantly simplified – whether in catering, commercial kitchens or buffets. Anyone who works with food should be aware of and take advantage of the benefits of Gastronorm containers.
