History and sizes, materials and variants: We took a closer look at this and much more about the Gastronorm (GN) in episode 1 and episode 2 of this blog series. Episode 3 will now focus on the specific applications of GN containers in professional kitchens. These are just as varied as the range of models available.
But before that, we want to look at another key question that has already been touched on here and there:
What are the advantages of GN containers?
Whether stainless steel or plastic, all Gastronorm containers combine a wealth of strong advantages:
One standard for everything
It simply fits: Gastronorm containers deliver what they promise in terms of dimensions. This makes planning and use in professional kitchens easier, as they can be used with all compatible appliances and furniture such as steam cookers, bain-maries and buffet stations.
Better organisation, simplified workflows
GN containers bring structure to the professional kitchen. If, for example, all the ingredients or dishes required for front cooking or system catering are immediately to hand and easy to portion, this saves time and nerves. Transparent lids can provide clarity about the type, condition and quantity of the container contents. And thanks to their stackability, Gastronorm containers can be stored in a space-saving and organised manner.
Maximum flexibility
Yesterday in the salad bar, today filled with soup in the transport trolley: most GN containers are not limited to a specific purpose and therefore demonstrate their potential day after day in a wide variety of situations.
Just as important: wherever large quantities of prepared food need to be served, these kitchen helpers come into their own. In just a few simple steps, empty containers can be replaced with full ones for event catering - and supplies of currywurst, gratin and the like are assured. The containers can also be easily moved within the company using GN standard transport devices.
Optimum hygiene
Cleanliness is an absolute must in the kitchen. The contents of the stainless steel and plastic GN containers remain protected thanks to the lids, and they are easy to clean and disinfect after use. Most models are dishwasher-safe and can usually be sterilised at high temperatures. This makes it much easier to comply with high hygiene standards.
A sustainable investment
From an environmental point of view, GN containers not only score points for their durability. Thanks to the rounded inner corners, food can be removed almost completely and the option of airtight storage extends the shelf life of the contents. All this and the aforementioned ease of portioning help to reduce food waste and conserve natural resources.
Are there any general disadvantages?
The GN containers are a well-thought-out system - with two small catches: the term ‘Gastronorm’ gives the impression that all containers, trays and lids (made of the same material) are fully compatible with each other. However, this is only true to a limited extent. Only the rectangular outer dimensions of the containers are standardised, not the inner dimensions of the rounding. As the manufacturers use different radii, it is generally only possible to stack containers from the same supplier in a form-fitting manner.
What applications are there for GN containers in the professional kitchen?
With their wide range of functions, GN containers accompany kitchen professionals through all phases, from the initial preparations to the serving or delivery of food:
Preparation and cooking
The vegetables you have just cut, prepared meat, herbs, spices and more can be stored in a matching GN container. A mise en place could hardly be tidier! And, of course, the Gastronorm containers also collect the waste produced during preparation.
When it comes to preparation, they also show their skills: when steaming, roasting, cooking, baking or pouring liquids.
Food serving and presentation
Serving food in the canteen, a buffet with salads, main courses or desserts and also the ice cream parlour: Just three examples of where food can be attractively presented and served with Gastronorm containers - and thanks to easy-to-implement warming or cooling over long periods of time.
Storage
Individual foods, whole meals or even dressings, sauces and usable leftovers can be conveniently stored in (deep) freezers or freezer rooms with GN containers. Dry foods such as pasta, flour or rice remain protected from moisture and pests thanks to the perfectly fitting lids. And prepared ingredients waiting to be used in the professional kitchen also feel at home in the Gastronorm containers. Storage racks ensure clarity and perfect utilisation of space.
Transport
GN containers make many catering services possible in the first place, from school lunches to multi-course meals at large festive events. And, of course, they are also indispensable for all logistical challenges relating to the canteen kitchen itself. Transport trolleys and transport boxes also move the food over longer distances, while GN lids with seals provide additional protection for the contents of the containers if required.
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