Grilling is a fantastic activity, but there is one thing that can ruin the whole experience – lighter fluid.
It sounds like a good idea in theory, but it’s like adding a little seasoning of diesel to your food.
So, why shouldn’t you use lighter fluid on the grill?
Let’s take a look at some of the reasons that make lighter fluid a nuisance in your grilling.
First of all, the taste.. You spend hours marinating your food, seasoning it and choosing the finest ingredients, only to throw a handful of chemicals into the mix. Lighter fluid not only gives your food an unwanted taste, it can also make it harmful to your health.
You don’t want a taste of lighter fluid in your hamburgers or chicken wings.
What is in lighter fluid?
Lighter fluid is a chemical mixture used to light a bonfire or a grill. It usually contains a blend of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as petroleum ether, heptane, hexane and other highly volatile hydrocarbons.
These chemicals are not good for us because they are toxic and can cause serious health problems. When they are used, they can give off dangerous fumes that can irritate the eyes, throat and lungs. Inhaling these fumes can also cause headaches, dizziness, fatigue and nausea.
Lighter fluid is dangerous.
Second, lighter fluid is dangerous. We have all seen the old commercials where someone pours lighter fluid on the grill and then accidentally sets half the block on fire. Maybe you have checked out Kjell i Ullared spraying half a bottle of lighter fluid on the grill.
Okay, maybe a bit extreme, but you get the point. Lighter fluid is a fire hazard, especially if you are new to grilling or just unlucky.
Lighter fluid is unnecessary
Third, lighter fluid is unnecessary. There are other ways to light your grill that don’t mean risking ruining the taste of your food or creating a fire hazard. You can use a torch, a grill starter or a fireplace lighter to light your charcoal briquettes.
Okay, so now we know why you shouldn’t use lighter fluid. But how can we make grilling more fun? Let’s take a look at some alternatives.
First, you can try a new seasoning or marinade for your food. There are hundreds of different recipes for marinades and seasonings that can take your grilling to a whole new level. Why not try something new instead of relying on lighter fluid?
Second, you can challenge yourself. Try cooking a new dish or a new grilling technique. The challenge of mastering grilling without lighter fluid can be both fun and rewarding.
Third, you can invite friends and family. Grilling is a social activity and there is no better way to spend a summer evening than hanging out with the people closest to you. Lighter fluid is just one thing that can spoil the mood, but with the right people and the right attitude the grill night can be a success.
So, in summary, let’s avoid lighter fluid when we grill. There is no reason to risk damaging the taste of our food, creating a fire hazard or simply first
What should I use instead?
There are many other ways to light your grill that are also both better and easier.
Use a Looftlighter, an electric fire-starter fork or a gas torch.
Chimney starters and paraffin cubes are also very good products.
Read here about easy ways to light your grill without lighter fluid.