GN Container Dimensions & Sizes: An Overview of All Gastronorm Dimensions
GN containers (Gastronorm containers) are the standardized container system for professional gastronomy according to DIN EN 631. They fit into refrigerators, combi steamers, bain-maries and serving display cabinets. This comprehensive guide explains all GN container sizes, dimensions, materials and applications.
The answer in brief: The base size GN 1/1 measures 530 × 325 mm. All other Gastronorm sizes are fractions or multiples of this: GN 2/1 = 650 × 530 mm, GN 1/2 = 325 × 265 mm, GN 1/3 = 325 × 176 mm, GN 1/4 = 265 × 162 mm, GN 1/6 = 176 × 162 mm, GN 1/9 = 176 × 108 mm. Common depths: 20, 40, 65, 100, 150 and 200 mm.
What are GN containers?
GN containers are standardized containers for gastronomy according to the European standard DIN EN 631. The abbreviation "GN" stands for "Gastronorm" – a uniform measurement system used in professional kitchens worldwide.
The basis of all GN container dimensions is the size GN 1/1 with external dimensions 530 x 325 mm. All other Gastronorm sizes are fractions or multiples of this standard size. This makes GN containers perfectly fit all common gastro appliances like refrigerators, combi steamers, heated wells and serving counters.
Advantages of the Gastronorm system
- Universally applicable in all gastro appliances according to DIN EN 631
- Stackable and space-saving in every professional kitchen
- Fitting lids for GN containers in every size
- Internationally standardized for professional kitchens
- Wide selection of materials: stainless steel, plastic, porcelain
- Various depths for different volumes
→ View all GN containers in the shop (stainless steel & plastic, all sizes with lids)
Overview of all GN container sizes
The following table shows all common GN container dimensions with external measurements, surface area and typical applications:
| GN Size | External Dimensions (mm) | Surface Area | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| GN 2/1 | 650 x 530 | 200% | Large kitchens, pass-through trolleys |
| GN 1/1 | 530 x 325 | 100% | Standard, combi steamer, refrigerator |
| GN 2/3 | 354 x 325 | 67% | Undercounter refrigerator, compact devices |
| GN 1/2 | 325 x 265 | 50% | Bain-marie, saladette, buffet |
| GN 1/3 | 325 x 176 | 33% | Sauces, side dishes, topping bars |
| GN 1/4 | 265 x 162 | 25% | Small portions, drinks, desserts |
| GN 1/6 | 176 x 162 | 17% | Spices, dressings, small quantities |
| GN 1/9 | 176 x 108 | 11% | Single portions, sauces, dips |
GN container 1/1 – The standard size
The 1 1 GN container with external dimensions 530 x 325 mm is the base size of all Gastronorm containers. It fits into practically every gastro appliance and is available in different depths:
| GN 1/1 Depth | Approximate Volume | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| 20 mm | 1.0 litre | Shallow dishes, cold cuts |
| 40 mm | 2.5 litres | Meat, fish, shallow dishes |
| 65 mm | 5.5 litres | Standard depth, versatile |
| 100 mm | 9.0 litres | Soups, sauces, larger quantities |
| 150 mm | 14.0 litres | Stews, goulash, large portions |
| 200 mm | 28.0 litres | Large kitchens, mass catering |
GN container sizes 1/2, 1/3, 1/4 dimensions
The smaller GN sizes are fractions of the GN 1/1 standard and offer flexible solutions for different requirements:
GN 1/2 containers (325 x 265 mm)
Two GN 1/2 containers fit exactly into one GN 1/1 cutout. Ideal for bain-maries, saladettes and buffet service.
GN 1/3 containers (325 x 176 mm)
Three GN 1/3 containers fit into one GN 1/1 cutout. Perfect for sauces, side dishes and toppings in topping bars.
GN 1/4 containers (265 x 162 mm)
Four GN 1/4 containers fit into one GN 1/1 cutout. Suitable for smaller portions and desserts.
GN 1/6 containers (176 x 162 mm)
Six GN 1/6 containers fit into one GN 1/1 cutout. Optimal for spices and dressings.
GN 1/9 containers (176 x 108 mm)
Nine GN 1/9 containers fit into one GN 1/1 cutout. For small sauces and dips.
Lids for GN containers
Fitting lids for GN containers are essential for hygiene and freshness retention. They prevent drying out, protect against contamination and keep food warm or cold.
Lid variants:
- Flat lids: Standard lids for sealing
- Lids with spoon slot: For serving situations
- Lids with silicone seal: Particularly tight, for transport
- Transparent lids: Content visible at a glance
Containers made of plastic vs. stainless steel
When choosing material for gastronomy containers there are two main options:
Containers made of stainless steel
- Extremely robust and durable
- Dishwasher safe and heat-resistant
- Ideal for combi steamers and hot applications
- Hygienic and easy to clean
- Higher purchase costs
Containers made of plastic (polycarbonate/polypropylene)
- Lighter and cheaper than stainless steel
- Transparent – content visible
- Ideal for cold storage and warehousing
- Not suitable for hot applications
- BPA-free variants available
Technical data according to DIN EN 631
The European standard DIN EN 631 specifies all technical data for Gastronorm containers:
- External dimensions (length x width)
- Internal radii and edge rounding
- Stacking height and stacking rim
- Handle design
- Material requirements
This standardization ensures that all GN containers from different manufacturers are compatible and fit into standardized gastro appliances.
Which GN size for which purpose?
The choice of the right GN container size depends on the purpose of use:
| Application | Recommended GN Size |
|---|---|
| Combi steamer | GN 1/1, GN 2/1 |
| Refrigerator | GN 1/1, GN 2/3 |
| Bain-marie / hot holding | GN 1/2, GN 1/3 |
| Saladette / refrigerated counter | GN 1/3, GN 1/4 |
| Pizza topping bar | GN 1/6, GN 1/9 |
| Transport / catering | GN 1/1 with lid |
Buy GN containers from Gastro-Nik
Discover our range of GN containers in all sizes and materials – from stainless steel to plastic, with fitting lids and accessories. We also stock GN grids & inserts.
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Last updated on 22 October 2026.