One in 10 Irish households start the BBQ season as early as Easter, research from Calor finds. Calor, one of Ireland’s leading suppliers of gas for homes and businesses across the country, surveyed 1,000 people to gain insights into the nation’s barbecue trends and traditions.
The survey of 1,000 people reveals that while most (68 per cent ) wait for summer to arrive, 15 per cent are quick to seize a dry spell in spring. A hardy minority keep the grill going year-round (three per cent ), while another three per cent even see Christmas as BBQ season.
Once summer hits, the BBQ becomes a regular fixture. One in three people grill at least once a fortnight during the summer, rising to two in five among Gen Z and Millennials – making them the most frequent BBQ-ers.
Dubliners lead the way, with 42 per cent barbequing at least once every two weeks during the summer. This compares to around a third in the rest of Leinster and Munster, and just to only 27 per cent of Connaught and Ulster respondents.
Unsurprisingly, the weather remains the biggest barrier, with 71 per cent saying it puts them off firing up the grill. Burnt or undercooked food is a concern for 15 per cent, while six per cent say nothing gets in the way of a BBQ.
Half of adults (49 per cent ) say they think about sustainability during BBQ season, but this rises significantly among Dubliners and younger generations. Gen Z is most likely to have the environment “top of mind” while barbecuing. 44 per cent say they consider greener energy options for their BBQ, however, a lack of awareness on sustainable options is a barrier for more households to swap to cleaner sources, with almost two-fifths (36 per cent ) saying they are not familiar with alternative fuel options.
One way that customers can make a more sustainable choice this summer is by switching to Calor’s BioLPG patio gas cylinders. BioLPG is a certified renewable gas, containing a blend of 20 per cent renewable energy and operating just like conventional gas. Made from sustainably sourced waste materials and renewable vegetable oils, Calor BioLPG is available in both 11kg cylinders and 6kg cylinders, suitable for barbeques and outdoor heaters.
Speaking on the latest research, Louise Carrick, head of marketing and customer experience at Calor, said: “At Calor, we pride ourselves on offering a wide range of energy solutions for homes and businesses across the country, including renewable energy options such as our BioLPG cylinders. As we head into the outdoor season, our research highlights a growing awareness of sustainability in everyday activities – including how we barbecue.
“Calor’s BioLPG offers a simple way for households to make a sustainable choice as they barbecue this summer, helping to reduce their impact while still enjoying time outdoors with family and friends.”
