Food Energy Conversion Calculator

Convert food energy instantly between kilocalories (kcal) and kilojoules (kJ).

Conversion Result

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Kilocalories (kcal)
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Kilojoules (kJ)

Conversion Rate

1 kcal = 4.184 kJ

Kilocalorie to Kilojoule Conversion

The **Food Energy Conversion Calculator** is essential for interpreting international **nutrition labels**. **Food energy conversion** relies on the precise relationship between the **kilocalorie (kcal)**, commonly known as a **Calorie** in the US, and the **kilojoule (kJ)**, the SI unit for energy often used in countries like Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. Knowing the conversion rate allows you to accurately track your **daily calorie goals** regardless of the unit listed on the package.

The Core Conversion Rate

The standard scientific rate for **calorie conversion** is:

$$\text{1 kcal} = 4.184 \text{ kJ}$$

This calculator automatically applies this factor, allowing you to instantly convert **kcal to kJ** or **kJ to kcal**. This is particularly useful when comparing **food energy** requirements calculated by tools like a **BMR Calculator** (which often outputs kcal) with data found on global **nutrition labels**.

Kilocalories vs. Calories

On food packaging, the term "Calorie" (capital 'C') technically refers to a **kilocalorie (kcal)**. The conversion tool handles this semantic distinction, ensuring that whether you input **kcal** or are converting **kilojoules**, the result reflects the energy content as understood for **nutrition planning**. Use this tool for quick, error-free **food energy conversion**.

Food Energy Conversion FAQs

What is the difference between kcal and kJ?

**Kcal** (kilocalorie) is the common unit of **food energy** used in the US, often simply called a Calorie. **KJ** (kilojoule) is the metric unit of energy used globally in science and on many international **nutrition labels**. This calculator provides the precise **calorie conversion** between them.

What is the formula for converting kJ to kcal?

To convert **kJ to kcal**, you divide the **kilojoule** value by the conversion factor of $4.184$. Conversely, to convert **kcal to kJ**, you multiply by $4.184$. This **food energy conversion** rate is constant.

Why do some food labels use Kilojoules (kJ)?

**Kilojoules (kJ)** are used on many international **nutrition labels** because they are the standard unit of energy in the International System of Units (SI). Understanding **food energy conversion** allows global comparison of **daily calorie goals**.