12 Common Foods You Should Never Cook on a Backyard Grill (They’re Toxic!)

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One can always count back to the time of summer, when the sizzle of food on the backyard grill is just what you need. It’s a cherished ritual with a fire and flavor art form for many. But when you turn on the grill for another family gathering or backyard bash, keep in mind that not all foods are created equivalent when grilling. Certain items can take a fun cookout and turn it into a health hazard, packing flavor that smokes beyond your plate.

Let’s be honest: no one wants to spend their sunny afternoon at a BBQ wondering about food safety. A little knowledge can help you dodge some common grilling pitfalls and make sure your cookouts are safe and fun. If you’re ready for the grill … before you throw those tempting foods on it, you should check out this list of what should never go on the grill.

Fish

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Grilling fish can be great; it can produce a wonderful smoky flavor, but delicate fish like flounder or sole can’t take the heat. They’ll fall apart on the grill rather than give you a beautifully cooked filet; rather, you’ll end up with a mess of charred bits. If possible, wrap the fish in foil, or place it in a grilling basket instead. It’s the best way to experience the flavor without the fishy disaster.

Processed Meats

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Summer may be hot dog and sausage season but they can come with a twist. Processed meats normally contain preservatives and additives that when grilled at high temperature the effects can be harmful. If you’re wanting something on the savory side, consider some high quality, low process snacks.

Leafy Greens

The char from grilling can give veggies a scrumptious char, but leafy greens like spinach or lettuce go up in flames easily with the grill’s intense heat. They are wilty and turn into a sad slimy mess no one wants to eat. So, go with grilled heartier vegetables like zucchini or asparagus that can survive the flames.

Rice

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Picture this: One day at a picnic you’re out, and someone thinks it’s cool to whip up some rice to grill. Spoiler alert: it’s not! Grilled rice has a tendency to stick to the grates, resulting in a culinary disaster both the dare deviliest of eaters would turn away from. Always save the rice for a dish that doesn’t involve flames and stick to grilling foods that can stand the heat.

Eggs

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Now imagine you cracking an egg right on the grill. Sounds messy, right? Grilling eggs in their shells can be disastrous. Instead, go for scrambled eggs cooked in a pan, or a breakfast burrito you can throw on the grill safely, no egg explosion.

Marshmallows

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There are health risks to the classic camping treat of grilled marshmallows. Overcooked marshmallows release harmful chemicals. Then why not roast them over the fire pit for that golden brown without the risk of tossing them over the flames?

Cheese

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Grilled cheese sandwiches are a favorite for all time but grilling cubes of cheese makes for a gooey mess. Cheeses typically melt rather than grill, which makes most of them slip through the grates or get stuck to the grill. If you’re feeling adventurous, grill cheese on skewers for a delish, cheesy alternative!

Pasta

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Another idea that sounds better in theory than practice is throwing pasta onto the grill. Cooked pasta will stick and fall through the grates. Instead, grill vegetables to toss in a pasta salad, so you get that wonderful charred flavor, but without the trouble.

Certain Fruits

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Fruits like watermelon grill really well but skip fruits that are very watery, like strawberries or oranges. This can cause them to go apart and make a sticky situation on the grates. Pick firmer fruits like pineapple or peaches that won’t wilt on the heat.

Tofu

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While tofu can be a great plant based protein, grilling it can be a challenge. Usually it falls apart or turns out quickly, leaving you with a sad, non descript crumbly mess. Grilled tofu can be enjoyed if it’s marinated beforehand and grilled, and you can use a grill basket or skewers to keep it intact.

High-Sugar Marinades

A sweet marinade will definitely make your meats taste better, but according to The Pioneer Woman, high sugar ones can burn up your meats quickly, creating some potentially harmful compounds. If you stick to savory or herb based marinades, you won’t have to worry about the outside of your food burning.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.