Gastronorm Pan Size Chart (GN Sizes Explained)
Table of Contents
Overview
Gastronorm (GN) is the international standard for food pans. Every GN size is a fraction of the full-size GN 1/1 pan footprint (530 x 325mm), so any GN-standard pan fits any GN-standard bain-marie, chafing dish or prep counter. Use this chart to match pans to your equipment.
GN Size Chart
| GN size | Footprint (mm) | Fraction of GN 1/1 | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| GN 2/1 | 650 x 530 | Double | Large ovens, blast chillers |
| GN 1/1 | 530 x 325 | Full size | Bain-maries, chafing dishes, transport |
| GN 1/2 | 325 x 265 | Half | Two dishes per full-size well |
| GN 1/3 | 325 x 176 | Third | Sauces, toppings, garnish lines |
| GN 1/4 | 265 x 162 | Quarter | Salad bars, condiments |
| GN 1/6 | 176 x 162 | Sixth | Dressings, small portions |
| GN 1/9 | 176 x 108 | Ninth | Spices, garnishes |
Common Depths
Common depths are 20, 40, 65, 100, 150 and 200mm – capacity depends on both footprint and depth, so check the listed capacity on each product.
GN 1/1 vs GN 1/2: Which Should You Buy?
Choose GN 1/1 when you serve one dish per well, need maximum capacity per pan, or transport full trays – one GN 1/1 is the full footprint of a standard chafing dish or bain-marie well. Choose GN 1/2 when you want two dishes in one well (two GN 1/2 side by side = one GN 1/1 footprint), serve smaller volumes that must stay fresh, or run varied buffet menus. Mixed approach: most buffet operations run GN 1/1 for high-volume mains and pairs of GN 1/2 or trios of GN 1/3 for variety – all interchangeable in the same equipment.
Checking Compatibility Before You Order
Measure your equipment’s well opening. A standard well takes one GN 1/1 (530 x 325mm) or any fraction combination that adds up to it. If your existing pans carry a “GN” marking with a fraction, any pan with the same fraction will fit. Unsure? Request a sample pan to test before bulk ordering.
Gastronorm Pans and Lids
Related Resources
- Gastronorm, buffet & food service – the full range.
- Gastronorm pans and lids – live stock and box quantities.
- Buying guides – more comparison guidance.
- All free tools – planners and charts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does GN 1/1 mean?
GN 1/1 is the full-size gastronorm footprint (530 x 325mm). Every other GN size is a fraction of it, so any GN-standard pan fits any GN-standard bain-marie or chafing dish well.
Which GN sizes do you stock?
We stock 1/1 and 1/2 gastronorm inserts in depths from 20mm to 150mm, with full and half lids to match. Check the specification on each product page for exact dimensions.
Will my existing pans fit your inserts?
If your pans carry a “GN” marking with a fraction, any pan with the same fraction will fit. Unsure? Request a sample pan to test before bulk ordering.