Standard Food Pan Sizes

A 1/3 pan is a standard food pan size, measuring roughly 12 inches by 62⁄3 inches in length and width. In millimetres, this is 325mm x 176mm. In terms of depth, these pans are commonly available in 2-inch, 4-inch, and 6-inch sizes, but can also be purchased in 1/2-inch or 1/4-inch increments. These pans are typically made from stainless steel or plastic and are used in commercial kitchens for storing, transporting, and serving food.

Stainless steel 1/3 pans are available in various depths, including 2.5, 4 and 6 inches

Stainless steel 1/3 pans are available in various depths, including 2.5, 4, and 6 inches. The standard width and length of a 1/3 pan are 12.8 inches and 7 inches, respectively. These pans are designed with an anti-jamming feature, preventing them from sticking together during storage. Additionally, they often have reinforced corners to resist warping or cracking.

The 2.5-inch-deep pans are ideal for medium-sized portions of food, such as steamed vegetables, cooked pasta, or poached seafood. They are also suitable for buffet tables and catering services. The 4-inch-deep pans are commonly used for storing and transporting food, and their collapsible handles make them convenient for reloading and carrying. The 6-inch-deep pans are perfect for holding both hot and cold food, making them suitable for buffets and catered events.

The versatility of these pans is further enhanced by their ability to transition from freezer to oven to steam or refrigerated tables. Their durability, scratch and dent resistance, and easy cleaning make them a valuable addition to any commercial kitchen or catering setup.

When choosing a stainless steel 1/3 pan, you can also consider the gauge of the steel, which indicates the thickness and heft of the pan. A lower gauge corresponds to thicker steel, which is more resistant to warping and denting but may be more expensive and slower to heat. On the other hand, a higher gauge indicates thinner steel, which is more economical, lighter, and quicker to heat but may be more prone to damage.

They are often designed with anti-jamming features to prevent pans from sticking together in storage

Food pans are a necessity in any commercial kitchen, offering a versatile and efficient means of storing, transporting, and serving food. They are designed to withstand high temperatures and resist corrosion, making them suitable for use in ovens, steam tables, and cold storage. Stackable designs and compatible lids enable easy organisation and efficient use of space.

In busy commercial kitchens, where space is often limited, anti-jamming features are particularly beneficial. These pans are designed with reinforced edges or anti-jam stacking lugs, which prevent multiple pans from sticking together when stacked and stored. This anti-jamming feature allows for hassle-free storage and easy separation of pans, without any struggle or damage.

The anti-jamming design enables efficient utilisation of space through stacking, while also ensuring that the pans can be effortlessly separated when needed. This feature is especially useful for caterers and buffets, where a variety of dishes need to be prepared and served efficiently.

Some examples of anti-jamming pans include the Choice 1/3 Size 6" Deep 24 Gauge Anti-Jam Stainless Steel Steam Table Pan and the Winco Anti-Jam 1/3 Size Pan. These pans are designed with anti-jamming features, such as reinforced edges or stacking lugs, to prevent sticking when stacked and stored.

They are commonly used for catering and buffets, as they can be used for both hot and cold food

Food pans are a necessity in any commercial kitchen, providing a versatile and efficient way to store, transport, and serve food. They are designed to withstand high temperatures and resist corrosion, making them suitable for use in ovens, steam tables, and cold storage. Their stackable design and compatible lids make them easy to organise and space-efficient.

One of the most common types of food pans is the 1/3 size pan, which measures 325 x 176 mm (12.8 x 6.9 inches) and is often available in depths of 2, 4, 6, or 8 inches. These pans are perfect for catering and buffets as they can be used for both hot and cold food.

The versatility of 1/3 size pans makes them ideal for buffet lines and catered events. They can be easily stacked and stored, and their reinforced corners make them durable and easy to carry. Additionally, their ability to withstand a wide range of temperatures means they can go straight from the freezer to the oven without warping. This makes them suitable for a variety of foods, from cold salads to hot dishes like chicken breasts or steak.

The material of the pan is also important to consider. Stainless steel pans are a popular choice as they are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to scratches and dents. They can also handle a wide range of temperatures, making them suitable for both hot and cold food service. Plastic food pans, on the other hand, are often clear or coloured, making it easy to identify their contents. They are available in regular, cold, and high-heat models, with polycarbonate and polypropylene being the most common types.

Overall, 1/3 size pans are a versatile and essential tool for catering and buffets, providing the ability to serve and store a variety of hot and cold foods efficiently and effectively.

They are also available in plastic, with regular, cold and high-heat models

Food pans are an essential tool in any commercial kitchen, offering a versatile and efficient way to store, transport, and serve food. They are designed to withstand high temperatures and resist corrosion, making them suitable for use in ovens, steam tables, and cold storage.

When it comes to choosing the right food pans, the type of material is an important consideration. Plastic food pans, for instance, offer versatility and convenience. They are available in regular, cold, and high-heat models, catering to diverse kitchen needs.

Regular plastic food pans are ideal for everyday use, providing an economical and durable option for food storage, preparation, and serving. These pans are typically made from materials like polypropylene or polycarbonate, which offer high chemical resistance and can withstand temperatures ranging from -40 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes them suitable for both hot and cold food applications.

Cold food pans are specifically designed for cold food storage, capable of maintaining temperatures below 41 degrees Fahrenheit for 6 to 8 hours. These pans are perfect for keeping perishable items chilled and safe for consumption. Some cold pans even feature a colour-changing exterior, indicating when the pan has reached a safe cold holding temperature.

High-heat food pans offer exceptional versatility, withstanding temperatures from -40 to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. They are often amber-coloured for easy identification in storage areas. These pans are suitable for a wide range of applications, including microwaves, steam tables, and hot holding. The non-stick interior of high-heat pans makes them ideal for cooking and reheating, providing a convenient and efficient option for busy kitchens.

Plastic food pans offer several advantages, such as clear or coloured options for easy identification of contents and colour-coding of storage areas. They are also lightweight, durable, and microwavable, making them a popular choice for commercial kitchens, buffets, and catering services.

They are ideal for storing, transporting and serving food

Food pans are an essential tool in any commercial kitchen, and 1/3 pans are no exception. They are highly versatile and efficient for storing, transporting, and serving food. Here are some reasons why:

Storage

1/3 pans are designed to be stackable, maximising space efficiency in refrigerators, freezers, and storage areas. Their standardised sizes, typically measuring 325mm x 176mm, ensure they can be easily organised and stacked without wasting space. Additionally, their lids prevent spillage and contamination, keeping food fresh and safe.

Transportation

The stackable design of 1/3 pans also makes them convenient for transportation. They can be easily carried and moved from one area of the kitchen to another, or even from the kitchen to the dining area. The lids also play a crucial role in transportation, ensuring the food stays in the pan and reducing the risk of spills during transit.

Serving

The versatility of 1/3 pans extends to their ability to serve both hot and cold food. They can be used with steam tables, ovens, and refrigerated buffet tables, making them ideal for buffets and catered events. The pans' reinforced corners make them easy to carry and resistant to warping or breakage, even when handling heavy dishes. Additionally, the anti-jam stacking lugs prevent the pans from sticking together, allowing for smooth and efficient serving.

Frequently asked questions