GN Pans are an essential tool in the world of professional cooking and catering, where efficiency, organization, and consistency are key. Whether you run a high-volume commercial kitchen or manage a boutique café, using the right tools matters. Among the most essential tools is the Gastronorm pan, more commonly referred to as the GN pan.
GN Pans are the unsung heroes of food prep, storage, and presentation in both commercial and high-end home kitchens. Their universal sizing system ensures compatibility with ovens, steamers, refrigerators, and display units, making them a must-have for any kitchen.
What Is a GN Pan?
A GN (Gastronorm) pan is a standardized container used for cooking, holding, storing, and displaying food. First introduced in Europe in the 1960s, the Gastronorm sizing standard (EN 631) ensures that GN pans of different sizes and depths fit into compatible equipment such as bain-maries, chafing dishes, steam tables, ovens, chillers, and display units.
Their modular format is a favorite in food service operations because it allows for seamless kitchen workflows. A GN pan that fits in your prep station will also fit your storage chiller or buffet warmer — making these pans incredibly versatile.
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Standard GN Pan Sizes
The GN pan system is based on a base size called GN 1/1, which measures 530 mm x 325 mm. Other GN pans are fractional divisions of this base size. Here’s a breakdown of standard GN sizes:
| GN Size | Dimensions (mm) | Dimensions (cm) | Dimensions (inches) | Notes |
| GN 2/1 | 650 x 530 | 65 x 53 cm | 25.6 x 20.9 in | Double size |
| GN 1/1 | 530 x 325 | 53 x 32.5 cm | 20.9 x 12.8 in | Full size |
| GN 2/3 | 354 x 325 | 35.4 x 32.5 cm | 13.9 x 12.8 in | Two-thirds |
| GN 1/2 | 325 x 265 | 32.5 x 26.5 cm | 12.8 x 10.4 in | Half size |
| GN 1/3 | 325 x 176 | 32.5 x 17.6 cm | 12.8 x 6.9 in | One-third |
| GN 1/4 | 265 x 162 | 26.5 x 16.2 cm | 6.9 x 6.4 in | Quarter |
| GN 1/6 | 176 x 162 | 17.6 x 16.2 cm | 6.9 x 6.4 in | One-sixth |
| GN 1/9 | 108 x 176 | 10.8 x 17.6 cm | 4.3 x 6.9 in | One-ninth |
✅ Tip: You can mix and match sizes to fit into a full-size GN slot. For example, two GN 1/2 pans equal one GN 1/1 pan.
GN Pan Depths
GN pans also come in a variety of depths. The depth determines how much food the pan can hold. Common depths include:
- 20 mm
- 40 mm
- 65 mm
- 100 mm
- 150 mm
- 200 mm
Each depth is suited for specific tasks:
- Shallow pans (20–65 mm): Ideal for plating, sauce service, and garnishes
- Medium pans (100 mm): Suitable for baking, roasting, and storing cooked dishes
- Deep pans (150–200 mm): Great for soups, stews, and bulk food prep
Materials: Which GN Pan Is Right for You?
GN pans are manufactured using different materials depending on their use case. Here’s a comparison:
1. Stainless Steel GN Pans
- Most durable and heat-resistant
- Ideal for baking, roasting, cooking, steaming, and serving hot dishes
- Easy to sanitize and maintain
- Often dishwasher-safe
- Used in high-heat environments
✅ Best for: Hotels, commercial kitchens, buffet service
2. Polycarbonate GN Pans
- Clear and lightweight plastic
- Resistant to breakage
- Ideal for cold food storage or ingredient prepping
- Withstand low to medium heat
✅ Best for: Salad bars, refrigerated storage, deli displays
3. Polypropylene GN Pans
- More flexible than polycarbonate
- Suitable for food storage and transport
- Can handle both hot and cold applications
✅ Best for: Food transport, storage containers
4. Melamine / Porcelain GN Pans
- Decorative and appealing
- Great for buffet or self-service presentations
- Not suitable for high-temperature cooking
✅ Best for: Front-of-house service, buffet counters
Applications of GN Pans in Foodservice
GN pans are indispensable in the following areas:
- Buffet Service: Easily placed in steam tables or food warmers
- Oven Baking: Stainless steel pans are compatible with most commercial ovens
- Cold Storage: Polycarbonate pans keep ingredients fresh and visible
- Meal Prep: Ideal for preparing and organizing ingredients ahead of time
- Transport: Deep pans are commonly used for food delivery and storage
Benefits of GN Pan Standardization
- Space Efficiency: Uniform sizing allows better stacking and storage
- Equipment Compatibility: GN pans fit all compliant kitchen appliances
- Modular Use: Mix and match pan sizes for flexible food service
- Inventory Simplification: Reduce the number of different containers
- Hygienic and Durable: Food-safe materials meet professional standards
How to Choose the Right GN Pan
When selecting a GN pan, consider the following:
1. Type of Food
- Soups and stews need deep pans
- Grilled vegetables or fish portions work well in shallow pans
2. Cooking Equipment
- Make sure the GN pan size fits your oven, bain-marie, or chiller
3. Service Style
- Buffets benefit from GN 1/1 and 1/2
4. Storage Needs
- Transparent plastic GN pans are best for ingredient storage
5. Durability
- Stainless steel offers longevity for daily heavy-duty use
Where to Buy GN Pans in Sri Lanka
For premium-quality GN pans in Sri Lanka, look no further than Daivindas.lk. As one of the country’s trusted suppliers of professional kitchen equipment, Daivindas.lk offers a complete range of GN pans in all standard sizes, depths, and materials.
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Whether you’re outfitting a restaurant, a hotel kitchen, or your home, Daivindas has the right GN pan for your needs. Competitive prices, reliable delivery, and professional-grade products make them the go-to choice for culinary professionals across Sri Lanka.
Final Thoughts
GN pans are more than just containers — they’re a system of efficiency and compatibility in modern kitchens. Understanding their sizes, depths, and materials helps chefs and kitchen managers streamline workflow, reduce waste, and improve service quality.
By choosing the right GN pan, you not only ensure excellent food preparation and presentation but also reduce operational hassle.
Ready to upgrade your kitchen? Explore the full range of GN pans at Daivindas.lk and bring professional efficiency into your food service today.