Gasoline has a lower flash point than lighter fluid, which means it ignites at a much lower temperature. This can cause a sudden and unexpected fire, putting you and your loved ones at risk.
Basic chemistry says that even if you dump an entire bottle of lighter fluid onto your grill, unless the food is on there while you’re pouring on the fluid (which is stupid for different reasons), there will be no trace of it left by the time you’re actually ready to cook. I can’t think of a single part of a charcoal grill interior that would be less than 200 degrees Fahrenheit, which is when these fluids would boil away.
Most lighter fluid is an aliphatic petroleum distillate of some kind, similar if not identical to naphtha. While individual manufacturers don’t disclose the exact ingredients of their lighter fluids, it just takes a quick Google for the MSDS (material safety data sheets) for just about any consumer product to at least get an idea of what’s inside, if not exact composition.
One claim I’ve heard repeatedly about lighter fluid and grilling is that it imparts a flavor to your food. Sorry folks, I’ve got to call excremento de toro on this. Let’s hit the science!
Full disclosure: no one from the lighter fluid industry paid for this post. It’s just me getting cranky at misconceptions fueled [pun] by lack of science knowledge.
The basic truth is this: lighter fluid, unless you’re pouring it on while the food is on the grill, simply boils up and burns away far too quickly for it to have any impact on the food you’re cooking.
Zippo : I Don’t Have Lighter Fluid…What Else Can I Use?
FAQ
Is it OK to use gas to light charcoal?
Is it safe to use gasoline in a Zippo?
Is there a difference between lighter fluid and gas?
Can you put lighter fluid in a fire?
It is important always to follow safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer and to use lighter fluid in a well-ventilated area, away from ignition sources. Additionally, never add lighter fluid to an already lit fire or use it to ignite charcoal soaked in lighter fluid.
What should I do if I accidentally use lighter fluid?
Have Fire Safety Equipment Nearby: Keep a fire extinguisher or another appropriate fire safety equipment nearby when using lighter fluid. This will enable you to respond quickly in case of accidental fires. Remember, lighter fluid is a flammable substance, and mishandling or improper usage can lead to accidents, injuries, or fires.
Is lighter fluid environmentally friendly?
Environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional lighter fluid are available. Proper disposal methods are crucial to minimize the environmental impact of lighter fluid. Lighter fluid is a volatile, flammable substance that ignites fires and grills.
Is petroleum based lighter fluid flammable?
Petroleum-based lighter fluid is the most common type and has been used for many years. It is highly flammable and produces an intense flame that can ignite charcoal or wood quickly. However, its strong odor can be a significant downside and is also hazardous to the environment due to its toxic chemicals.