Gastronorm containers may look simple, but choosing them involves three key decisions: the size must fit the appliance they will be used in, the material determines whether they can go in the oven or are only suitable for the fridge, and the depth determines how much food they can hold. The same standard (GN) is used in ovens, fridges, bain-maries and display cases, so a container in the right size will fit many appliances.

We’ve gathered everything you need to know to choose the Gastronorm containers that suit your kitchen and needs. Let’s take a detailed look at everything so we can answer all your questions!

1. Size (GN): which appliance and position will it go in?

The GN size indicates what fraction of the largest pan, the 1/1, the container occupies. A 1/1 measures 530×325 mm, and all other sizes are derived from it, so two 1/2 containers take up the same space as one 1/1. The first thing to consider is the internal dimensions of the appliance they will go in (oven, refrigerator, bain-marie, display case) and how many slots you want to fill.

• GN 1/1 containers are the full size: they hold the largest quantity and cover an entire oven or refrigerator shelf.
• GN 1/2 containers (325×265 mm) cover half a shelf. They let you divide one slot between two preparations, for example, two different dishes on the same shelf.
• GN 1/3 containers (325×176 mm) provide three slots per shelf and are suitable for buffets and preparation counters with many different ingredients.
• The smaller GN 1/4, 1/6 and 1/9 containers are for sauces, garnishes and side dishes that need a small quantity in a separate slot.
• GN 2/1 containers (650×530 mm) are twice the size of 1/1 and are intended for large ovens and kitchens that work with large quantities.

Choose this if: you want to fill your appliance shelves completely; choose GN 1/1. If you need to prepare several different items side by side, combine smaller sizes that together make up a 1/1.

SkroutzTip: Measure the internal width and depth of your appliance before buying, and consider the lid too, as it only fits the same GN size. Use the buttons below to go directly to the size you need.

2. Construction material

The material determines where you can use the container: in the oven, refrigerator or buffet, or for storage only. In any case, check the temperature range specified by the manufacturer in the product details, as the limits vary from one range to another.

• Stainless steel containers are the most popular choice. They are heat-resistant and usually suitable for oven use, do not retain odors, and can be used for cooking, reheating and storage. They are not transparent, so you cannot see the contents from the outside.
• Polycarbonate (PC) containers are transparent, so you can immediately see what is inside when you open the refrigerator. They are suitable for storage and food preparation and, in most ranges, are not intended for oven use.
• Polypropylene (PP) containers are lightweight and usually the most economical option for storage and transport. They are available in transparent or black, with or without lids, and have a lower maximum temperature limit than stainless steel.
• Melamine containers are designed for serving and buffets: they have a smooth, colored surface and are not intended for cooking.
• Porcelain containers add an elegant touch to buffet presentations, but need to be handled carefully to avoid knocks. Check with the manufacturer if you plan to use them in the oven.

Choose this if: you cook or reheat food in the container, choose stainless steel. If you need storage and want to see the contents, choose PC or PP. If you are serving at a buffet, consider melamine or porcelain.

The table below gives you a quick comparison of the materials:

SkroutzTip: Stainless steel cookware is marked with grades such as 201, 18/0, 18/8 or 18/10, as well as sheet thickness (e.g. 0.6 or 0.8 mm). Thicker sheets are less likely to warp when the cookware is filled and placed in an appliance, while 18/10 products are usually part of ranges designed for more professional use. Check these details in the product specifications.

3. Depth: how much food should it hold?

Depth, along with GN size, determines the container’s capacity. Two containers of the same GN size fit in the same space, but the deeper one holds much more food. Depths range from 20 to 200 mm, and your choice depends on what you’ll be putting inside.

• Shallow containers (20, 25 and 40 mm) are ideal for display and serving: arrange the food in a thin layer, for example in a display case or buffet.
• 65 mm-deep containers are a practical choice for buffets and prep counters, where you want easy access to the contents.
• 100 mm-deep containers offer an intermediate depth for all kinds of use, from cooking to storage.
• 150 mm-deep containers and 200 mm-deep containers hold large quantities of stocks, sauces, stews and marinated foods. However, they require more vertical space in the appliance.

The table below shows the approximate capacity of a GN 1/1 container at each depth:

SkroutzTip: The capacities in the table are indicative and vary slightly depending on the material and manufacturer. For the exact capacity, check the product specifications.

4. Perforated or solid container?

The final choice regarding the container itself is whether its base should have holes. It depends on whether you need liquids to drain away.

Perforated containers drain liquids, making them useful for rinsing and draining vegetables or pasta, keeping food free of excess liquid, or steaming. You can also place one on top of a solid container of the same size to collect the liquid underneath.

Solid containers are the right choice for food with sauce, broth, or liquid that needs to stay inside, as well as for storing any liquid or semi-liquid foods.

Choose this if: If you drain food often or cook with steam, choose a perforated container. If the food contains liquid that needs to stay in, choose a solid one.

5. Lids and compatibility

Many Gastronorm containers are sold without a lid, especially plastic ones (PC and PP), while others come with a lid included or are part of an airtight range. Before you buy, check whether the lid is included, as you often need to purchase it separately.

The lid fits only the same GN size and the same material or range, so it’s worth choosing it together with the container. Some lids have a notch for a serving spoon, so you can serve without removing them. You’ll find Gastronorm lids in a separate category.

SkroutzTip: If you store food in the fridge, a tightly fitting lid protects it from odours and drying out. When using the container in the oven, check that the lid can also withstand the temperature.

Don't forget! By taking the above features into account and choosing the ones that suit your device and needs, you can find the ideal option. Before you decide, take a look at reviews from other users to see what their experience has been like—this may make it much easier to decide.

This article was created with the help of AI and reviewed and edited by the Skroutz team.