Charcoal lighter fluid

Lighter-fluid infused briquettes, that eliminate the need for separate application of lighter fluid, are available.

The use of lighter fluid is somewhat controversial as the substance is combustible, harmful or fatal if swallowed, and may impart an unpleasant flavor to food cooked upon fires lit with it.

The sale of petroleum-based charcoal lighter fluid is regulated in some jurisdictions due to its potential to cause photochemical smog through evaporation of its volatile organic compounds.

[1] The South Coast Air Quality Management District requires that all charcoal lighter fluids sold in its jurisdiction (essentially Southern California) meet the air quality standards set forth in District Rule 1174.

Charcoal lighter fluid, known as LF-1, was used in the Pratt & Whitney J57 engine, which powered the Lockheed U-2 aircraft.