Big Green Egg charcoal contains only 100% natural American oak and hickory “ultra premium” hardwood … you will see — and taste — the difference immediately. What else would you want to cook with? Big Green Egg 100% Natural Lump Charcoal is easy to light and is usually ready to cook in about 10 minutes. Plus, it burns hotter and more efficiently, with more BTUs, than charcoal briquettes. Our premium lump charcoal also produces less ash so there is minimal waste and clean up … delivering more value and performance in every bag. But, most importantly, food tastes better, without harsh chemicals or odors that can be released when cooking with briquettes or other similar products. In fact, we recommend against ever using briquettes, lighter fluids or any quick-light charcoal product in a Big Green Egg.