Aluminum Foil Steam Table Pans: The Complete Consumer Guide

Aluminum foil trays are the most versatile disposable food containers being produced today. Aluminum Steam Table Trays are cost effective, practical and designed for single use only. They are designed to withstand extreme temperature ranges, from freezing temperatures to broiler temperatures. For these reasons, they are the #1 choice for food transport used by restaurants, caterers, and chefs within the foodservice industry. No need to clean them after use, just dispose of them in a recyclable way. Aluminum can be recycled countless times, so we suggest recycling aluminum products whenever possible.

With such a wide selection of aluminum packaging and products to choose from online, it can sometimes be confusing for the consumer. This guide will help you choose which specific tray meets your needs.

steam table paper tray background

Almost all aluminum trays made in the US are made from 3003 aluminum alloy. The strength of an aluminum tray is determined by the thickness of the aluminum sheet, which is measured by its gauge. One gauge results in a stronger pan. Many US manufacturers make several different gauges of the same size pan to allow for economical use in different applications. For example, transporting light foods such as salads doesn’t require as strong a tray, so a lighter gauge aluminum tray will do the job adequately.

Steam Table Tray Sizes

Other than a few minor variations, all sizes of steam table foil pans are universal among US foil manufacturers. There are 3 categories of steam table pan sizes: Full Size, Half Size and Size third.

medium size pans

These measure 12-3/4″ long by 10-3/8″ wide. The most common half-size pans are made from heavy-duty 40-gauge aluminum, with a full curl rim, with the exception of the extra-deep half-size pan which is even stronger at 50-gauge. (A stronger version is also available 45 caliber half depth).

Half Size Trays (4 deep) 12-3/4″ x 10-3/8″ (100 trays per carton)

• Medium Shallow: 1-11/16″ vertical depth
• Medium Medium Size: 2-3/16″ vertical depth
• Medium Depth Size: 2-9/16″ vertical depth
• Medium Extra Deep: 4-3/16″ vertical depth

Uses: Light to medium volume catering, smaller party portions, bulk food transportation, BBQs, grilling, baking, casseroles, pastries, cooking.

full size pans

These measure 20-3/4″ long by 12-13/16″ wide and vary in depth. They are typically made from heavy-duty 65-gauge aluminum, full curl edge. These will not easily bend or squash. Economy gauge pans are 55 and 60 gauge, also known as cheater gauge. These are best used for light duty applications and we generally do not recommend them for commercial food service use. And if you need even stronger support, extra-heavy-duty 70-gauge pans are available in Full-Size Deep and Full-Size Medium.

Full Size Trays (3 deep) 20-3/4″ x 12-13/16″ (50 trays per carton)

• Full Size Shallow: 1-11/16″ vertical depth
• Medium Full Size: 2-3/16″ vertical depth
• Full Size Depth: 3-3/8″ vertical depth

Uses: Full-service volume catering, party tray portions, transporting heavy bulk foods, grilling, BBQs, baking, cooking.

third size pans

The 3rd Size Deep Steamer Pan is the exact same pan as the 5lb Loaf/Bread Pan. They are available in boxes of 100 and 200.

Uses: loaf/loaf pans, biscuits, grilling, barbecues, cooking, baking

Lids for steam pans

Matching aluminum lids are available for all aluminum steam pans. Lids universally fit their respective size containers, including those made by various US manufacturers. In addition to aluminum lids, clear OPS dome lids are available for medium size pans.

Tips for aluminum pans

Did you know that the aluminum molds can be refrigerated or frozen, and can go directly into the oven? This is one of the main reasons why they are the best choice for transporting disposable food within the food service industry. However, there are a few things you can do to get the most out of your steam tables.

• Always support the bottom! Keep in mind that aluminum pans will bend under the weight, and holding a pan by the edges when it’s full of food is something to avoid. Use at least one hand under the pan for support when transporting food.
• Use matching aluminum lids. These serve several purposes. They cover the food and keep it hot (steam!). Help eliminate spills. They also provide significant additional support once folded all the way around the tray.
• With liquid foods, use plastic wrap to cover the pan, then crimp the aluminum lid over the top. This will significantly reduce leaks and spills.
• Aluminum pans are recyclable. Help the environment by recycling your aluminum products whenever possible.

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