PERC research shows that grilling outdoors becomes more common

2007 was a record-breaking year for the barbecue industry, as 17.4 million grills were shipped – the highest since HPBA began recording shipments in 1985.

Arecent survey conducted for the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) shows that 25 percent of respondents are cooking on the grill more than they were a few years ago.

Grilling isn't just for special occasions anymore, the research revealed.

Barbecue Grill Shipments

Fifty-four percent of respondents cook on their outdoor grill year-round, and 43 percent regularly use their outdoor grill during the week.

Home Grill Fires by Power Type

Ninety percent of respondents said they grill during the week because grilled food tastes better.

PERC's survey also revealed that only 52 percent of respondents know a lot about safe grilling practices. PERC offers tips for grillers to follow.

Grill Ownership

The survey, conducted in March using Opinion Research Corp.'s Caravan National Omnibus, queried 447 adults who own an outdoor gas grill.