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ShareDoes the type of charcoal make a difference?
When it comes to outdoor cooking, the type of charcoal you use plays a crucial role—not only in the quality of your food but also in its environmental impact. It should be treated as an ingredient in its own right, with good quality sustainably sourced charcoal imparting a clean, natural flavour to dishes.
Charcoal Briquettes are one option, made from sawdust and wood by-products. Briquettes burn consistently and slowly making them good for long cooks, however they often contain chemical additives that can have a negative affect on your food. Another option is lumpwood charcoal, a great choice for your barbecue. This form of charcoal is 100% natural, lights easily and reaches high temperatures perfect for searing steaks, fish and vegetables.
What to look for when buying charcoal
Here's a guide to making a more sustainable choice for your Kadai Fire Pit.
1. Go British to Reduce Air Miles
Opt for British-made lumpwood charcoal. Choosing locally produced charcoal significantly reduces air miles, lowering the carbon footprint of your BBQ. Many imported charcoals come from tropical forests in South America and Africa, contributing to deforestation and long-distance transportation emissions.
2. Avoid Chemicals and Additives
Cheap, mass-produced charcoal often contains chemicals that can impact your food and the environment. Imported varieties are particularly problematic as they may include:
- Fire suppressants to prevent self-combustion during shipping.
- Fire accelerants to make lighting easier.
These additives need to burn off before you start cooking, potentially releasing harmful residues into the air.
3. Look for FSC Certification
For a truly eco-conscious choice, select lumpwood charcoal certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). This certification ensures the charcoal is made from responsibly managed woodlands, supporting sustainable forestry practices.
At Kadai HQ we are very fortunate to be just up the road from Caradoc Charcoal, supplier of sustainably sourced 100% guaranteed British charcoal – all made in the heart of the Stretton Hills. Browse our selection of Firebowl Fuel here.
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Choosing sustainable charcoal doesn't just benefit the planet—it enhances your cooking experience, ensuring that your food is prepared over natural, chemical-free embers, producing that irrestible barbecue flavour we all know and love.