A sixth pan is a standard-sized food container used in professional kitchens and restaurants. It's part of a food prep and storage system where different sized containers fit together in larger equipment. The "sixth" means it's one-sixth the size of a full hotel pan, making it perfect for storing smaller amounts of ingredients, garnishes, or sauces. When candidates mention this in their resume, it shows they understand professional kitchen organization and food storage standards. This knowledge is important because it relates to food safety, kitchen efficiency, and proper ingredient management.
Organized prep station using Sixth Pan system for efficient service
Maintained food safety standards using 6th Pan storage solutions
Managed mise en place using 1/6 Pan organization system
Typical job title: "Line Cooks"
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Q: How do you organize a prep station for maximum efficiency using sixth pans?
Expected Answer: A senior candidate should explain how to arrange ingredients based on frequency of use, temperature requirements, and cross-contamination prevention, while maintaining FIFO (First In, First Out) rotation.
Q: How do you train staff on proper pan organization and food storage systems?
Expected Answer: They should discuss creating standard operating procedures, demonstrating proper usage, implementing labeling systems, and ensuring food safety compliance while teaching newer staff.
Q: What considerations do you take when selecting between different pan sizes for prep work?
Expected Answer: Should explain how menu volume, ingredient types, and service periods influence pan size selection, showing understanding of kitchen efficiency.
Q: How do you maintain food safety when using sixth pans during service?
Expected Answer: Should discuss temperature monitoring, proper cleaning procedures, rotation schedules, and cross-contamination prevention methods.
Q: What is a sixth pan and when would you use one?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the basic size and common uses like storing smaller portions of prep ingredients or garnishes.
Q: How do you properly clean and store sixth pans?
Expected Answer: Should know basic sanitization procedures, drying methods, and proper stacking/storage techniques.