Gastronorm Pans: The Ultimate Guide for Restaurants

Choosing the right gastronorms for your kitchen can dramatically improve your daily operations. It’s all about matching the pan to the specific task and ensuring it fits with the equipment you already use. Think of it like selecting the perfect set of tools – when everything works together harmoniously, your kitchen runs more efficiently, saving you valuable time and reducing frustration. This guide will help you understand the standard dimensions of gastronorms, from the foundational GN 1/1 size to the various fractional options and depths available. We'll explore how to pick the best sizes for your unique needs, streamlining your food preparation, storage, and service.

Key Takeaways

• Streamline Operations with Standard Sizes: Gastronorm's universal dimensions mean pans fit perfectly across various equipment, making daily tasks simpler and your kitchen more organized.
• Choose Smartly for Versatile Use: Match Gastronorm sizes and materials—like stainless steel for heat or polycarbonate for cold—to your specific food prep, cooking, and presentation methods.
• Maximize Longevity and Stay Updated: Proper cleaning and storage extend the life of your Gastronorms, while awareness of new designs and eco-friendly choices keeps your kitchen current.

What Are Gastronorms and Why Do They Matter?

If you've ever stepped into a bustling professional kitchen, you've likely noticed the gleaming stacks of stainless steel pans and containers. These aren't just any old kitchenware; many of them are Gastronorm containers, often called GN pans. Think of them as the unsung heroes of the culinary world, a standardized system that brings order and efficiency to the often-chaotic environment of a commercial kitchen. Understanding Gastronorms is more than just learning industry jargon; it’s about grasping a concept that can genuinely transform how you manage your food preparation, storage, and service. From compact cafes to large-scale catering operations, these versatile containers play a crucial role in ensuring everything runs smoothly.

The Gastronorm system is essentially a universal language for kitchen container sizes, primarily adopted across Europe and increasingly recognized globally. This standardization means that a GN 1/1 pan from one manufacturer will fit perfectly into a compatible oven, refrigerator, or serving station from another. This interoperability is a game-changer, eliminating the guesswork and frustration of mismatched equipment. By adopting Gastronorm sizing, you're not just buying containers; you're investing in a system that helps you maximize space, reduce food waste, and improve workflow. Whether you're outfitting a new kitchen or looking to optimize your current setup, getting familiar with Gastronorms will help you make smarter choices for your restaurant equipment.

Define Gastronorms: Their Role in Your Kitchen

So, what exactly are Gastronorms? The term "Gastronorm," or GN, refers to a European standard that dictates the specific dimensions for containers, trays, and pans used in the professional foodservice industry. Imagine a set of building blocks, all designed to fit together perfectly – that's the essence of the Gastronorm system. Their primary role is to simplify nearly every stage of food handling. From storing ingredients in your walk-in cooler to cooking dishes in combi ovens, and even displaying food on a buffet line, Gastronorm containers ensure a seamless transition. This compatibility across different pieces of kitchen equipment means less time wasted transferring food between mismatched containers and more time focusing on creating delicious meals.

Discover Their Key Features and Benefits

The real genius of the Gastronorm system lies in its standardized sizing. The foundational size is the GN 1/1, which measures 530 x 325 millimeters. All other GN sizes are derived from this base, such as the GN 1/2 (half the size of a GN 1/1), GN 1/3, GN 1/4, and even larger sizes like GN 2/1. Beyond the length and width, these containers also come in various depths, allowing you to choose the perfect volume for anything from a shallow tray of roasted vegetables to a deep pan of soup. While stainless steel is the most common material due to its durability, hygiene, and excellent heat conductivity (perfect for deep fryers or ovens), you'll also find Gastronorms made from polycarbonate for cold storage or porcelain for elegant presentation. The overarching benefit is clear: unmatched efficiency and organization in your kitchen.

Gastronorms: How They Became a Kitchen Essential

Ever wondered how professional kitchens stay so organized and efficient with countless pans and containers? A big part of the secret is Gastronorm pans. These aren't just food containers; they're a cornerstone of modern kitchen operations. Understanding their journey from a clever idea to a global standard helps us appreciate their indispensability. Let's explore how these essential tools originated and why they’re a fixture in professional kitchens worldwide.

Uncover Their Origins and Development

The story of Gastronorm sizes begins in Switzerland during the 1960s. Kitchen innovators there were looking for ways to make kitchen workflows smoother and more efficient. Their solution was to develop a standardized system for food containers and trays, which we now know as Gastronorm. Interestingly, this new system drew inspiration from an existing US standard of 530 x 325 mm. The main goal was ambitious yet practical: to create a universal sizing system. This meant that kitchen equipment and utensils could be compatible, no matter who made them. This smart system officially became a European standard in 1993, cementing its role in professional kitchens.

See Why Professional Kitchens Worldwide Use Them

So, why did Gastronorms catch on so successfully? It really comes down to efficiency and versatility. This standardized system simplifies almost every aspect of food handling. Because GN pans come in consistent sizes, they fit perfectly into a wide array of kitchen equipment – from ovens and combi steamers to bain-maries and, of course, storage units. This compatibility across different brands and types of equipment is a massive time-saver.

Moreover, their modular design is a game-changer for space management. Gastronorm containers are designed to stack neatly and nest within each other, which is incredibly valuable in busy kitchens where space is often at a premium. This standardization doesn't just help individual kitchens; it has also improved efficiency in how commercial kitchen equipment itself is designed and manufactured. Whether you're cooking, storing, displaying food on a buffet, or transporting meals, these pans are up to the task.

Gastronorm Sizes: Find Your Perfect Fit

Getting the right Gastronorm pan sizes for your kitchen can make a world of difference in your daily operations. It’s all about matching the pan to the task and the equipment you use. Think of it like finding the perfect set of tools – when everything fits and works together, your kitchen runs much more smoothly, saving you time and hassle. Let's figure out how to pick the best sizes for your specific needs, so you can streamline your food prep, storage, and service.

Understand Standard Gastronorm Dimensions

So, what exactly are these Gastronorm sizes everyone talks about? Gastronorm is essentially a worldwide standard system for food container and tray dimensions. It was cleverly developed in Switzerland back in the 1960s, building upon an existing US standard of 530 x 325 mm. The main idea was to create a universal sizing system, which means your kitchen equipment and utensils can be compatible, no matter who made them. This compatibility is a huge time-saver in a busy kitchen environment.

The cornerstone of this system is the GN 1/1, which measures 530 x 325 mm. From this base size, all other common sizes are derived. You’ll frequently see GN 2/1 (which is double the size of GN 1/1) or fractional sizes like GN 1/2, GN 1/3, GN 1/4, GN 1/6, and GN 1/9. It doesn't stop there; GN 2/4 and GN 2/3 are also part of the family. Plus, these containers come in various depths, allowing you to choose precisely what you need for different foods and cooking methods, from shallow pans for display to deep ones for bulk storage.

Choose the Right Size for Your Kitchen

Now that you know the "what," let's talk about "which." Because GN pans follow a standardized system, they are wonderfully compatible with a wide array of kitchen equipment like ovens, refrigerators, prep tables, and bain-maries, regardless of the manufacturer. This makes planning your kitchen layout and workflow much easier. These versatile pans, often made from durable stainless steel but also available in plastic or ceramic, are true workhorses. You can use them for cooking, storing, displaying food on buffets, or transporting meals efficiently.

When selecting sizes, consider their intended use. Are you displaying delicate pastries or appetizers? A shallower pan might be best. Storing a large batch of soup or cooking a roast? You'll want a deeper pan. Their modular design is another fantastic feature, allowing them to be stacked and nested, which is a real space-saver in compact kitchens. For transport, look for pans with smooth edges and well-fitting lids to prevent spills. And a little tip: a GN container grip is a lifesaver for safely handling hot pans straight from the oven.

Gastronorm Materials: Know Your Options

When you're picking out Gastronorm pans, one of the first things you'll notice is that they come in a few different materials. It's not just about looks; the material affects how you can use the pan, how long it lasts, and even how it interacts with your food. Think about what you'll be using them for most – cooking, storing, serving, or all of the above? Knowing this will help you pick the perfect material for your kitchen's needs. Let's look at some of the most common options out there so you can make an informed choice for your busy kitchen.

Why Choose Stainless Steel for Durability

If you're looking for a real workhorse in the kitchen, stainless steel Gastronorm pans are often the top pick, and for good reason. Their biggest selling point is durability – these pans can handle the hustle and bustle of a busy commercial kitchen without easily denting or warping. Plus, stainless steel is super hygienic and easy to clean, which is a huge win for food safety and makes your cleanup process much smoother.

You'll find that stainless steel is incredibly versatile. It’s a great heat conductor, making it perfect for cooking in ovens, and it’s equally at home in freezers for storage or on display units for serving. This adaptability means you can often use the same pan for multiple stages of food preparation and service, streamlining your workflow and cutting down on the number of dishes you need to wash.

Explore Plastic, Porcelain, and Other Materials

While stainless steel is a popular choice, it's definitely not the only player in the game. You'll also find Gastronorm containers made from materials like polycarbonate. These are fantastic for food prep, chilling, and especially for cold food displays, partly because they often come with transparent lids so you can easily see what's inside without having to open them up. Polycarbonate doesn't conduct heat well, which is a plus for cold applications, and it's generally microwave-safe, offering some flexibility.

Then there's melamine, which is lightweight and can add a bit of color or a different aesthetic to your presentation. It's best for cold food only, though, as it can't handle high temperatures. Porcelain is another option you might see, often favored for its elegant appearance in buffets or display cases, giving a more upscale feel. Choosing the right material from the wide array of restaurant equipment available ensures each task in your kitchen is handled efficiently and safely.

Improve Kitchen Efficiency with Gastronorms

If you're looking for a straightforward way to make your commercial kitchen run like a well-oiled machine, Gastronorm pans are a fantastic solution. Think about how much time and energy goes into just moving ingredients around, prepping them, and then storing everything. Gastronorms bring a level of order and simplicity to these everyday tasks that can genuinely transform your workflow. Because they're standardized, these pans and containers fit together and work with a wide range of your existing kitchen equipment. This means less fumbling for the right lid or trying to make mismatched containers fit into your refrigerators or ovens, which is a common headache we all want to avoid!

Imagine a system where every container has its place and purpose, from the moment ingredients arrive to when a dish is plated. That’s the kind of efficiency Gastronorms offer. They help reduce clutter, minimize food waste by making storage more effective, and can really speed up your prep lines. For any busy restaurant owner or chef, these aren't just minor conveniences; they're significant improvements that can impact your bottom line by saving precious time and resources. Adopting Gastronorms is a practical step towards a more organized, productive, and ultimately, more profitable kitchen. It’s about working smarter, not just harder.

Streamline Your Food Prep and Storage

One of the biggest wins with Gastronorm pans is how they simplify your entire food preparation and storage cycle. Because Gastronorm (GN) is a European standard for the sizes of food trays and containers, it’s recognized and used worldwide. This means you can prep ingredients in a GN pan, slide that same pan into a combi oven for cooking, then move it directly into a GN-compatible freezer or holding cabinet for storage. This seamless transition between different stages and equipment cuts down on washing extra dishes and reduces handling. That’s fantastic for both efficiency and maintaining high food safety standards, making the journey from raw ingredient to finished component as smooth as possible.

Organize Your Kitchen, Maximize Your Space

Let's talk about kitchen real estate – it's always at a premium, isn't it? Gastronorm pans are brilliant for helping you make the most of every inch. Their standardized dimensions, with the GN 1/1 (530 x 325 mm) as the base, allow for a wonderfully modular system. This means different sizes can be combined flexibly, and they're designed for easy stacking and nesting. This is a huge space-saver, whether on your prep tables, in your storage units, or even in the dishwasher. By creating a more organized system, you reduce clutter, make it easier for your team to find what they need quickly, and ultimately create a more efficient and less stressful working environment for everyone.

Gastronorms: Versatile Tools for Food Service

Gastronorm pans are true workhorses in any professional kitchen, going far beyond simple storage. Their standardized sizing and design make them incredibly adaptable, fitting seamlessly into various stages of food preparation, cooking, and service. Think of them as the ultimate utility players, ready to take on whatever task you throw their way, helping your kitchen run smoother and more efficiently. This adaptability means less time spent transferring food between containers and more time focusing on creating delicious dishes.

Use Gastronorms for Cooking and Baking

One of the best things about gastronorm pans is their incredible versatility when it comes to cooking and baking. You can pop them directly into the oven for everything from roasting meats and vegetables to baking casseroles or even sheet cakes. Need to keep a sauce warm? They fit perfectly into bain-maries. Once your culinary creations are ready, or if you're prepping ingredients ahead of time, these pans are ideal for storage in commercial refrigerators or freezers.

Their robust construction also makes them great for transporting food, whether it's from one station to another in your kitchen or off-site for a catering gig. This ability to cook, store, and transport food all in the same container not only saves on washing up but also streamlines your entire workflow. Imagine prepping, cooking, and then storing portions in the same pan – it’s a huge time-saver and helps maintain food quality by minimizing handling.

Serve and Display Food Professionally

When it’s time to serve, gastronorm pans help you present your food in a clean, organized, and professional manner. They are a cornerstone of buffet setups and hot or cold food displays. Because gastronorm is a crucial standardization system, these pans fit perfectly into compatible serving units, steam tables, and chafing dishes, ensuring a neat and tidy presentation that guests will appreciate. This compatibility simplifies how you manage your food service operations from back-of-house to front-of-house.

Beyond their practical fit, the variety of available materials, like sleek stainless steel or elegant porcelain, allows you to choose pans that complement your food and service style. Their modular design is another significant advantage; they stack and nest efficiently, which is a real space-saver in busy kitchens where every inch counts. Using gastronorms for display means your food not only looks appealing but is also held at the correct temperature, maintaining quality from kitchen to guest.

Use Gastronorms: Best Practices for Success

Alright, so you've got your Gastronorm pans, or you're seriously considering them. Smart move! These standardized containers are workhorses in professional kitchens for a reason. But like any great tool, using them effectively comes down to a few key practices. It’s not just about having them; it’s about integrating them seamlessly into your kitchen’s rhythm to really see the benefits in efficiency and food quality.

Think of Gastronorms as the building blocks of an organized and high-performing kitchen. Their universal sizing, a system first developed in Switzerland back in the 1960s, was a game-changer. It aimed to create a compatible system for kitchen equipment, meaning your pans would fit perfectly in everything from your ovens to your prep tables. This standardization is fantastic, but to truly make the most of it, let's talk about some best practices. We'll cover how to keep your inventory in check and ensure your food stays safe and delicious by managing temperatures like a pro. These simple habits can make a huge difference in your day-to-day operations, saving you time, reducing waste, and ultimately helping your kitchen run smoother.

Label and Manage Your Inventory Effectively

One of the unsung heroes of a well-run kitchen is a solid inventory management system, and Gastronorm pans can play a starring role here. Because Gastronorms follow a worldwide standard for sizes—from the full GN 1/1 (that’s 530 x 325 mm) down to smaller fractions like GN 1/6 or GN 1/9—they make organizing your ingredients much simpler. You always know what fits where, making it easier to shop for restaurant equipment that works together.

To really get a handle on your stock, make labeling a non-negotiable step. Use clear, consistent labels on each Gastronorm pan detailing contents, prep date, and use-by date. This not only helps with stock rotation (first in, first out!) but also minimizes guesswork and potential errors during busy service. Imagine quickly grabbing the exact prepped ingredient you need without a second thought. This level of organization, supported by the standardized nature of Gastronorm containers, directly contributes to a more efficient and less wasteful kitchen.

Control Temperature for Optimal Food Safety

Gastronorm pans are incredibly versatile when it comes to temperature. You can use them for virtually everything: cooking in the oven, keeping food warm in a bain-marie, chilling ingredients in commercial refrigerators, or deep-freezing portions in your freezers. This adaptability is fantastic, but it also means you need to be diligent about temperature control to ensure food safety.

Always use a food thermometer to check that food cooked in Gastronorms reaches the correct internal temperature. When chilling or freezing, ensure the pans allow for quick cooling to prevent bacterial growth. Stainless steel Gastronorms, the most common and often recommended type due to their durability and hygiene, are excellent for this as they conduct temperature well. Remember, proper temperature control isn't just about quality; it's a critical food safety practice that protects your customers and your reputation. Using Gastronorms correctly helps you maintain those high standards.

Care for Your Gastronorms: Make Them Last

Your gastronorm pans are real workhorses in the kitchen, and with a bit of smart care, you can make sure they last for years to come. Taking good care of your kitchen equipment isn't just about keeping things tidy; it's about protecting your investment and ensuring your kitchen runs smoothly day in and day out. Let’s look at some straightforward ways to extend the life of your gastronorms, keeping them in top shape for all your culinary creations.

Clean Your Gastronorm Containers Properly

First things first, to maintain the quality and longevity of your gastronorm pans, it's really best to clean them immediately after use. Don't let food sit and dry on them! Just use warm, soapy water and a soft sponge to gently wash away any residue. This helps avoid scratching the surface, especially on those shiny stainless steel ones. It's a good idea to steer clear of harsh chemicals and abrasive scrubbers, as they can damage the material over time, shortening your pan's lifespan.

After washing, make sure you dry the pans thoroughly. This is super important to prevent rust, particularly if your pans are made of stainless steel. Water spots can be a nuisance, but rust is a real problem. For stainless steel pans, giving them a regular polish will help maintain that bright, shiny finish and keep them looking professional. A little effort here goes a long way in keeping your culinary tools in service longer.

Store Gastronorms to Extend Their Life

When it comes to storage, the modular design of gastronorm pans is a real space-saver. They're made for efficient stacking and nesting, which can free up valuable room in a busy kitchen. However, it’s important to stack them carefully. Tossing them haphazardly can lead to dents, scratches, or warping, which definitely won't help them last. A gentle hand when stacking will prevent unnecessary damage.

Another great habit is to give your gastronorms regular once-overs. Quick inspections for any signs of wear and tear, like deep scratches, warping, or loose handles (if applicable), can help you spot any issues early on. Catching these things quickly ensures that your gastronorms remain in optimal condition for as long as possible, keeping your kitchen operations smooth and efficient. This proactive approach means you get the most out of your durable equipment.

Gastronorm Myths: Let's Set the Record Straight

Gastronorm pans are absolute staples in busy professional kitchens, but as with any widely-used tool, a few myths and misunderstandings can float around. If you've heard some conflicting information or perhaps have a few reservations yourself, you're in the right spot. Let's clear the air and make sure you have all the facts, so you can feel confident using these incredibly versatile containers to their fullest potential in your restaurant.

Getting to the truth about Gastronorms can really help you streamline your kitchen's workflow and make smarter choices when it comes to purchasing. We'll tackle some of the common misconceptions head-on and also address practical concerns you might have about their cost and day-to-day use. By the time we're done, you'll have a clearer picture of why these standardized pans are such a favorite among chefs and foodservice operators across the globe.

Debunk Common Misconceptions

One idea that often comes up is that Gastronorm is strictly a European standard. While it's true that the Gastronorm system was first developed in Switzerland back in the 1960s and officially became a European standard in 1993, its practical benefits have led to its adoption worldwide. Many professional kitchens, well beyond Europe, use it because it simply makes operations more efficient. So, while its origins are European, its advantages are definitely universal.

Another point that sometimes causes confusion is why this standardization of sizes is such a big deal. Well, this uniformity is precisely what makes Gastronorm pans so incredibly valuable. It means that a GN 1/1 pan from one brand will fit perfectly into a piece of equipment, like a combi oven or a prep table, from a completely different manufacturer. This seamless compatibility across various brands and types of kitchen equipment is a massive plus for kitchen efficiency, allowing for smooth transitions from prepping food to cooking and then to storage.

Address Your Concerns About Cost and Use

You might be wondering if Gastronorm pans are truly versatile enough to earn their keep in your kitchen, or perhaps you're concerned about the initial cost. Let's talk about their usability first. These pans are incredibly adaptable. They aren't just designed for one specific task or appliance; you can confidently use them in ovens, commercial refrigerators, walk-in freezers, bain-maries, combi steamers, and yes, even your commercial dishwashers. This multi-functionality means you can often reduce the number of different types of containers you need to buy and manage.

When it comes to the price tag, it's fair to say that quality Gastronorm pans are an investment. While there are certainly cheaper alternatives on the market, they might not stand up to the rigors of a commercial kitchen over time. Lower-quality pans can warp, dent, or degrade more quickly with constant use and exposure to varying temperatures. Investing in durable, high-quality pans from the outset can actually save you money in the long run by minimizing the need for frequent replacements. Think of them as a long-term component of your kitchen's efficiency, just like reliable deep fryers or sturdy worktables. If the upfront cost is a hurdle, exploring options like restaurant equipment financing can be a smart way to acquire the quality gear your kitchen deserves.

The Future of Gastronorms: What's Next?

Gastronorm pans are already such reliable staples in our kitchens, but like everything in the fast-paced culinary world, they're constantly evolving. It's pretty exciting to see how fresh ideas in design and a growing awareness around sustainability are shaping what’s next for these essential containers. Keeping up with these changes isn't just about having the newest gear; it’s about making smart, forward-thinking choices for your kitchen. When you understand the trends, you can better equip your space for maximum efficiency and meet modern demands, whether you're outfitting a new restaurant or upgrading your current setup.

The industry is seeing a real push towards enhancing the functionality of gastronorm pans, focusing on how they can make our busy kitchen lives a bit easier. This means looking beyond the standard stainless steel to explore materials that offer better heat retention or improved durability. Think about how much smoother your prep and service could be with pans designed to optimize every step. Plus, as we all become more conscious of our environmental footprint, the shift towards sustainable options is a welcome development. Choosing the right restaurant equipment is crucial, and understanding the future of even fundamental items like gastronorms can give you an edge.

Look at New Designs and Material Innovations

Professional kitchens are dynamic environments, and the tools we rely on, including gastronorm pans, need to keep pace with our demands. That’s why you’ll notice ongoing refinements in their design. We're seeing creative variations, sometimes blending American and European kitchen philosophies, to better accommodate diverse cooking techniques and presentation styles. Beyond just aesthetics, there's a significant focus on innovative materials. Imagine pans that are tougher, maintain temperature more consistently, or are even simpler to clean after a long service. These advancements aren't just minor tweaks; they're geared towards streamlining your daily workflow, ensuring you get top-notch results whether you're using them in your prep tables or high-capacity ovens.

Consider Sustainable Gastronorms for Your Kitchen

Sustainability is a hot topic in the foodservice industry, and it’s something many of us are passionate about. As we collectively look for ways to operate more eco-consciously, the equipment we select, right down to our gastronorm pans, plays a vital role. Manufacturers are increasingly embracing this, concentrating on eco-friendly materials and production processes that minimize environmental impact. This means you can find gastronorms that are not only built for the rigors of a commercial kitchen but also align with your commitment to greener practices. Opting for sustainable gastronorms doesn't mean you have to compromise on performance; it’s about investing in durable, efficient tools, much like choosing energy-efficient refrigerators, that also contribute to a healthier planet.

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Frequently Asked Questions

I'm just starting to equip my kitchen. Which Gastronorm sizes are the most essential to begin with? That's a great question! If you're building your collection, the GN 1/1 is your foundational piece – it's the standard size most equipment is designed around. From there, GN 1/2 and GN 1/3 pans are incredibly useful for smaller batches, side dishes, or organizing ingredients within a larger GN 1/1 space. Think about the main tasks you'll be doing and the volume of food you typically handle; that will guide your initial choices.

Can I really use the same Gastronorm pan for cooking, storing, and serving? Absolutely, and that’s one of their biggest advantages! For example, you can prep ingredients in a stainless steel GN pan, cook them in that same pan in your combi oven, then slide it into a compatible refrigerator for storage, and finally, place it directly into a steam table for service. This seriously cuts down on dishwashing and food handling, which is a win for both efficiency and hygiene.

Are stainless steel Gastronorms always the best choice, or are there times when plastic is better? Stainless steel is definitely the go-to for durability and versatility, especially for cooking and hot holding. However, polycarbonate (plastic) Gastronorms shine for cold storage and display. They're often lighter, can be transparent for easy identification of contents, and are great for salad bars or prep stations. So, it's less about one being "better" and more about choosing the right material for the specific job at hand.

Beyond fitting into my equipment, what are the main day-to-day benefits of using Gastronorms? The compatibility is huge, but the benefits go further. Gastronorms bring a fantastic level of organization to your kitchen. This means quicker ingredient access, more efficient use of your storage space (they stack and nest beautifully!), and smoother workflows during busy service. This organization can also lead to reduced food waste because items are stored properly and are easy to see and use in a timely manner.

How can I be sure I'm buying good quality Gastronorm pans that will last? Look for pans made from a decent gauge of stainless steel if you're going that route – they should feel sturdy and not flimsy. Check for smooth, well-finished edges, as these are safer to handle and easier to clean. Reputable suppliers are usually a good bet, and while it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing a bit more in quality pans often pays off in the long run as they'll better withstand the demands of a commercial kitchen.