Its shelf life is indefinite if stored properly. Briquettes on the other hand, tend to only be good for around one to two years. This is due to the lighter fluid they were treated with. If your bag wasn't kept airtight, it is likely the chemical additives have evaporated.

Can charcoal briquettes get old?

Expired Briquettes

Charcoal is porous and easily absorbs any moisture from the area. Like wet wood, wet briquettes will not light. If your container of charcoal briquettes has gotten wet or the briquettes will not readily light, they might be past their prime.

Does charcoal briquettes ever go bad?

In fact, charcoal does not expire, and won't go bad over time as long as long as it avoids moisture. However, if you're charcoal has additives, which can help it light, these can expire which makes the charcoal harder to light.