Food Pans

• Browne Foodservice Steam Tables
• Carlisle Food Storage Containers
• Commercial Roasting Pan
• Steam Table Pans
• Update International Steam Tables

Food pans are an essential component in the food service industry and are used for various purposes related to food storage, transport, and serving. These pans are typically made from materials like stainless steel, plastic, or other food-safe materials. They come in various sizes and shapes to accommodate different culinary needs and fit into various food service equipment.

Here are some key aspects related to food pans:

1. Sizes and Types: Food pans come in standard sizes, typically referred to by their fractional dimensions, such as 1/6, 1/4, 1/3, 1/2, and full-size pans. These dimensions help ensure compatibility with a wide range of food service equipment, like steam tables, food warmers, and refrigeration units.

2. Materials: Food pans are commonly made of stainless steel, which is durable, easy to clean, and resistant to staining and corrosion. Plastic food pans are also popular due to their lightweight nature and affordability. Some specialty pans may be made of other materials to serve specific purposes.

3. Depth: Food pans come in various depths, allowing for the storage and serving of different quantities of food. The depth of the pan is often indicated in inches and can range from shallow to deep, depending on the specific application.

4. Gastronorm Sizing: The gastronorm system is an internationally recognized standard for food pan sizing. Pans conforming to this system are designed to fit seamlessly into compatible food service equipment, ensuring consistency and ease of use worldwide.

5. Accessories: Food pans may have compatible accessories like lids, covers, and drain grates to enhance their functionality. Lids help keep food warm and protect it from contaminants, while drain grates allow excess liquids to drain away from the food.

6. Use Cases: Food pans are used in a variety of settings, including restaurants, catering events, cafeterias, and food manufacturing. They are ideal for storing, transporting, and serving hot or cold foods, from soups and sauces to salads and desserts.

7. Stackability: Many food pans are designed with stackable features to save storage space when not in use. This feature is particularly useful in busy commercial kitchens with limited storage space.

8. Cleaning and Maintenance: Food pans are generally easy to clean, whether by hand or in a dishwasher. Stainless steel pans are especially resistant to staining and odors, making them a popular choice for many food service establishments.

9. Color-Coding: In some cases, food pans may be color-coded to help staff quickly identify the contents, especially in busy kitchen environments.This practice can improve efficiency and food safety.

Food pans are versatile tools in the food service industry, contributing to the efficient storage, transport, and presentation of food. They are an essential part of maintaining food quality, safety, and organization in commercial kitchens and food-related businesses.