<P> Charcoal lighter fluid is a volatile fluid used to accelerate the ignition of charcoal in a barbecue grill . It can either be petroleum based (e.g., mineral spirits) or alcohol based (usually methanol or ethanol). It can be used both with lump charcoal and briquettes . 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 . A traditional alternative to using lighter fluid is a chimney starter . </P> <P> 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 . 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 . Common substitutes are chimney and electric fire starters . </P>

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