Commercial Gastronorm Container Kits are essential workhorses in professional UK kitchens—from bustling restaurants and hotels to busy catering companies and food production facilities. These standardized food storage systems, available in stainless steel, polycarbonate or polypropylene, create order from chaos in even the most hectic kitchen environments. With standard sizing from 1/1 GN down to 1/9 GN, they slot perfectly into refrigeration units, countertop wells, and bain maries for seamless workflow. Whether you're prepping, storing, serving, or transporting food, these versatile kits work brilliantly alongside commercial refrigerators and food warmers to streamline your entire kitchen operation.
Modular System Mix and match sizes for perfect kitchen organization.
Essential Buying Considerations
Material Selection
Stainless steel for durability and hot food—higher investment.
Polycarbonate for visibility and lighter weight—ideal for cold storage.
Polypropylene for budget-conscious kitchens—best for ambient temperature.
Size Requirements
Calculate volume needs based on your production levels.
Consider your combi oven and refrigeration dimensions for compatibility.
Include a mix of depths for versatile storage solutions.
How Commercial Gastronorm Container Kits Work
Gastronorm containers might look simple, but they're a marvel of kitchen engineering! The genius lies in their internationally standardized dimensions—creating a universal system where every container fits precisely into compatible equipment. They come in various depths (from 20mm to 200mm) to accommodate different food quantities, with clear measurement markings for portion control. The GN ratio system (1/1, 1/2, 1/3, etc.) allows for perfect configuration based on your needs—a 1/1 container can be replaced by two 1/2 containers or three 1/3 containers, creating endless flexibility. Most feature stackable designs with recessed handles and compatible lids for space-efficient storage and safe transportation.
Trusted Insights from Charlotte Westwood
Chef Tools & Kitchenware Specialist
10 years experience
"Gastronorm container kits are the unsung heroes of a pro kitchen—get the right sizes and you’ll fly through prep, service, and storage like a dream. Trust me, mixing and matching lids, pans, and inserts saves time and keeps your mise en place on point!"
Check Integrity Inspect for cracks or damage—prevents contamination.
Mind Temperature Shock Avoid extreme temperature changes—prevents warping.
Prevent Cross-Contamination Use dedicated containers for raw meats.
Proper Stacking Don't overload—ensures stability.
Check Heat Limits Verify material ratings before heating.
Proper Ventilation Use vented lids for hot food storage.
Top Tips for Using Commercial Gastronorm Container Kits
To get the most from your gastronorm system, label containers with contents and dates using food-safe markers or label systems. Rotate stock properly using the FIFO method (First In, First Out) to maintain freshness. Consider colour-coding lids to prevent cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods. For longer life, avoid using metal utensils on polycarbonate containers, and never put hot food directly into cold containers—allow food to cool slightly first to prevent warping.
Benefits of Using Commercial Gastronorm Container Kits
Food Quality Maintenance Preserves flavours and textures—enhances menu quality.
Workflow Efficiency Standardizes storage—speeds up service.
History Gastronorm standards were established in 1964—revolutionizing kitchens.
Durability Quality stainless steel containers last 10+ years in commercial settings.
Versatility Used in 98% of professional kitchens worldwide—industry standard.
Efficiency Organized storage systems reduce prep time by up to 25%.
Expert Insights on Commercial Gastronorm Container Kits
Having supplied thousands of kitchens over 50 years, we've seen how quality gastronorm systems transform operations. 'They're the unsung heroes of food preparation,' explains Chef Marcus, our kitchen efficiency consultant. 'The right set can cut prep time by 30% and drastically reduce food waste through better organization and storage.'
Cons: Quality sets require initial investment—though pays for itself quickly.
Who Needs Commercial Gastronorm Container Kits?
Restaurants Essential for mise en place and efficient service—from prep to line.
Hotels Perfect for buffets, room service, and banquet operations.
Catering Companies Ideal for safe food transport and presentation.
Healthcare Facilities Critical for maintaining food safety and portion control.
Real-World Success with Commercial Gastronorm Container Kits
A busy gastropub in Yorkshire transformed their kitchen nightmare into an organized dream with our gastronorm container kit. Before, their prep area was chaos—ingredients stored haphazardly in mismatched containers. They invested in a comprehensive set of stainless steel gastronorm containers and polycarbonate options for their refrigeration. 'The difference was immediate,' the head chef told us. 'Our prep time dropped by 45 minutes daily, and food waste decreased by nearly 20% since everything was properly labeled and visible in our commercial refrigerators.'
FAQs
What's the difference between gastronorm sizes?Sizes are fractions of the standard 1/1 GN—smaller fractions mean smaller containers.
Can stainless steel gastronorm containers go in the oven?Yes, stainless steel containers withstand oven temperatures up to 300°C.
Are polycarbonate gastronorm containers dishwasher safe?Absolutely—commercial dishwashers clean them brilliantly without damage.
How deep should my gastronorm containers be?Choose depths based on food volume—65mm is versatile for most applications.
Do all gastronorm containers come with lids?Not always—check whether kits include lids or if they're sold separately.
Can I use gastronorm containers in a microwave?Polycarbonate and polypropylene yes, stainless steel absolutely not.
Looking for Equipment by Business Type?
Not sure where to start? Whether you're running a bustling café, opening a pizzeria, or managing a school canteen, we've made it easy to shop by business type. Explore handpicked equipment bundles and essentials tailored to your industry—saving you time and making sure you get exactly what you need.
We’ve selected some closely related categories that might be essential for your setup. Whether you’re expanding your kitchen or just making sure you’ve got everything covered, these links will help you explore more equipment that fits your needs.
'These GN container kits have revolutionized our kitchen storage—absolutely brilliant!'
LLiamHead Chef, The Copper Pot, Birmingham
'Perfect fit, exceptional quality, worth every penny!'
JJennyCatering Director, Marquee Events, Glasgow
Why Choose EasyEquipment for Commercial Gastronorm Container Kits?
Trusted Supplier 50 years equipping UK kitchens—we know what works.
Fast Delivery Next-day options available—perfect for urgent kitchen needs.
Best Price Promise Found it cheaper? We'll match it—guaranteed fair value.
Real Support Talk to actual kitchen experts—not call centres.
Ready to Explore Commercial Gastronorm Container Kits?
Transform your kitchen operations with our professional gastronorm container kits. From premium stainless steel to practical polycarbonate options, we've got the perfect storage solution to streamline your food preparation and service.