How to convert kilojoules to kilocalories
Formula: kcal = kJ ÷ 4.184
Worked example: 2,000 kJ → 2,000 ÷ 4.184 = 478.011 kcal
Divide kilojoules by 4.184 to get kilocalories, the Calories of US labels. An Australian label showing 1,500 kJ per serving means about 358 Calories.
Kilojoules to kilocalories conversion chart
| Kilojoules (kJ) | Kilocalories (kcal) |
|---|---|
| 100 kJ | 23.9006 kcal |
| 250 kJ | 59.7514 kcal |
| 500 kJ | 119.503 kcal |
| 750 kJ | 179.254 kcal |
| 1,000 kJ | 239.006 kcal |
| 1,500 kJ | 358.509 kcal |
| 2,000 kJ | 478.011 kcal |
| 4,000 kJ | 956.023 kcal |
| 6,000 kJ | 1,434.03 kcal |
| 8,400 kJ | 2,007.65 kcal |
| 10,000 kJ | 2,390.06 kcal |
What is a kilojoule?
The kilojoule equals 1,000 joules. Food labels in Europe, Australia and New Zealand list energy in kJ next to kcal; a typical adult reference intake is 8,400 kJ, or 2,000 kcal, per day.
What is a kilocalorie?
The kilocalorie equals 1,000 small calories, or 4.184 kilojoules. It is the Calorie printed on US Nutrition Facts labels and used in diet and exercise tracking: an adult needs roughly 2,000 to 2,500 kcal a day.