Quickly and accurately convert between energy units for nutrition tracking and meal planning
Energy Converter
Convert between kilojoules (kJ) and calories (cal)
kJ
cal
1 kilojoule = 0.239 calories
Accurate Conversions
Uses the precise conversion ratio of 1 cal = 4.184 kJ for scientifically accurate results
Nutritional Context
See equivalent food items to better understand energy values in real-world terms
Simple & Fast
Convert with a single click, auto-detect units, and instantly get your results
Understanding Energy Units
Kilojoules (kJ)
- The standard unit of energy in the International System of Units (SI)
- Commonly used in Australia, New Zealand, and many European countries for food labeling
- 1 kilojoule = 0.239 kilocalories
- Represents the energy required to move a 1kg object 1 meter using 1 Newton of force
Calories (cal)
- Traditionally used in the United States, Canada, and parts of Europe
- "Calories" on food labels are actually kilocalories (1 kcal = 1000 calories)
- 1 calorie = 4.184 kilojoules
- Originally defined as the energy needed to raise 1g of water by 1°C
Why Convert Between Units?
Different countries and food products use different energy measurements. Converting between kilojoules and calories allows you to:
- Compare nutritional information on international food products
- Follow recipes and meal plans from different countries
- Accurately track your daily energy intake regardless of the unit used
- Understand fitness equipment and exercise metrics that may use different units