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An American Story

The history of grilling at Kingsford is a classic American story. It all started in 1919 when Edward G. Kingsford helped Henry Ford procure a stretch of timberland to supply wood for his auto plants.

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Preserve the Pit

The history of grilling at Kingsford is a classic American story. It all started in 1919 when Edward G. Kingsford helped Henry Ford procure a stretch of timberland to supply wood for his auto plants.

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American Pride

An American-made company founded over 100 years ago, Kingsford has a lot to be proud of. Our employees have been continuing the family tradition in backyards across the nation.

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The Kingsford Difference

Kingsford has been fueling legendary grills since 1920, and we’re still America’s #1 charcoal for good reason. Our briquets light faster, burn longer, and deliver the high heat you need for exceptional results. Whether you’re searing steaks or savoring smoky flavors, one thing’s for certain — nothing beats the original.

Kingsford™

Original Charcoal Briquets, BBQ Charcoal for Grilling

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3 bags of charcoal: one original label, one is blue with an eagle, one has an American flag design on the fron

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Product Highlights

  • Lights Fast. Burns Hot. Burns Long.
  • Ready in About 15 Minutes
  • Made with 100% Natural Ingredients
  • Sure Fire Grooves™
  • Versatile for Any Occasion

To celebrate America 250, look for Kingsford™ Original in limited-edition Flag and Eagle bag designs for a limited time this grilling season.

Since 1920, Kingsford™ Original Charcoal has been the gold standard of grilling. Made in the USA with North American ingredients and with 100% natural ingredients, these briquets deliver the smoky wood-fired flavor BBQ lovers crave. From searing steaks to grilling vegetables, Kingsford™ Original Charcoal lights faster and burns hotter* giving you reliable performance every time.

Designed with Sure Fire Grooves™ for faster lighting* these briquets are ready in just 15 minutes. From backyard gatherings to game-day tailgates, Kingsford™ Original Charcoal fuels authentic BBQ flavor and brings people together around the grill.

* Compared to nationally available conventional charcoal in the U.S.A.

The Kingsford Difference

Blue Bag

When it’s time to fire up the grill, choose the Original. Kingsford™ Original Charcoal is engineered to light fast, burn hot and burn long — delivering quick starts and wood-fired finishes. It’s the charcoal trusted by generations of grillers for authentic BBQ flavor and reliable performance.

Bag of Original Kingsford Charcoal with wood fence behind it
The Kingsford Difference

Designed Stronger for Fewer Breaks*

When it comes to grilling, strength matters. In our Drop Test, Kingsford briquets stay intact, while the competition crumbles. Why does that matter? Because strong briquets mean less waste.

Watch our Drop Test video and see the difference for yourself.

* Compared to Jealous Devil Max XL Charcoal Briquets

A piece of charcoal being dropped on its corner
The Kingsford Difference

Quicker Cooks

For grillers who demand the best, Kingsford delivers. When tested, our steak reached 135°F in just 7 minutes, leaving our competition in the dust. While their meat stays raw*, Kingsford serves up steaks cooked to perfection. Nothing beats the original when it comes to speed, heat and flavor.
Ready to see the Steak Test for yourself? Watch the video.*

* Always ensure you cook for adequate time to reach USDA requirements.

† Kingsford™ Original Charcoal Briquets compared to Jealous Devil Max XL Charcoal Briquets^

A side by side comparison of cross sections of steak cooked with Kingsford charcoal vs. Jealous Devil
Pairs well with this recipe

Grilled Ribeye

Grilling thick cut ribeye steaks to perfection is simple, fast and fit for every occasion.

Get the Recipe
Close-up of sliced grilled ribeye steak with a seared crust and juicy pink center arranged on a white plate, with a blurred salad in the background
Learn

How to Grill with Charcoal

Everything you need to know about grilling with classic Kingsford™ charcoal and charcoal grills.

Learn How
Lamb chops cooking on a charcoal grill

Frequently Asked Questions

Made with 100% natural ingredients and Sure Fire Grooves™, Kingsford™ Original Charcoal lights faster and burns hotter*. The briquets are designed to deliver reliable performance making them ideal for everything from searing to smoking.

  • Compared to nationally available conventional charcoal in the U.S.A.

Kingsford™ Original Charcoal is ready in about 15 minutes. Once the briquets are covered in gray ash, they’re good to go.

Yes, Kingsford™ Original Charcoal is made with 100% natural ingredients sourced from North America. The briquets are crafted from real American wood and other natural materials, ensuring authentic BBQ flavor. There are no chemical additives, making it a trusted choice for grillers.

Absolutely. Kingsford™ Original Charcoal is versatile enough for both high-heat searing and low-and-slow smoking. Its long burn time and consistent heat output make it ideal for a wide range of grilling techniques.

Kingsford™ Original Charcoal is available in multiple bag sizes to suit any grilling occasion. Options include 4 lb, 8 lb, 12 lb, 16 lb, and twin 12 lb, 16 lb or 20 lb. packs.

To maintain freshness and performance, store Kingsford™ Original Charcoal in a cool, dry place. Reseal the bag tightly after each use to prevent moisture from affecting the briquets.
Kingsford™ Storage Containers make it easy to store, protect and dispense your briquets (or wood pellets)!

Yes, Kingsford™ Original Charcoal can be used in ceramic or kamado grills, though some grill manufacturers may recommend specific briquet types. For best results, follow your grill’s guidelines.

Kingsford™ Original Charcoal pairs well with a wide variety of recipes, from classic burgers and ribs to grilled vegetables and seafood. Its consistent heat and smoky flavor bring out the best in every bite.

Kingsford™ Original Charcoal is designed to burn with a moderate amount of ash. The briquets maintain their shape and integrity during cooking, which helps reduce mess and makes cleanup easier.

Kingsford™ Original Charcoal is proudly made in the USA using North American ingredients. The brand has been crafting charcoal for over a century, with production facilities located across the country. This commitment to domestic manufacturing ensures quality and supports local communities.