KJ to Kcal converter

How to convert kilojoules to kilocalories

To convert kilojoules to kilocalories, use kcal = kJ ÷ 4.184. For example, 8,400 kJ is 2,007.65 kcal. Type any value in the converter above and the result updates instantly.

The KJ to Kcal formula

The conversion is kcal = kJ ÷ 4.184. One kilojoule equals 0.239006 kcal. This conversion is exact: kilojoule is defined precisely in terms of kilocalorie, so the only rounding is in the digits shown.

KJ to Kcal conversion table

Where kilojoules and kilocalories are used

Kilojoules are the SI energy unit and appear on food labels in Australia, New Zealand and Europe.

Kilocalories are the 'calories' printed on food labels in most countries.

Worked examples

These examples use the formula above, so you can check the converter or do the same by hand:

• 250 kJ = 59.7514 kcal
• 1,000 kJ = 239.006 kcal
• 5,000 kJ = 1,195.03 kcal

Converting kilojoules to kilocalories in your head

Divide by 4: 1,000 kJ is about 250 kcal (exactly 239 kcal).

Kcal to KJ reference table

For the opposite direction, these values are handy to have at hand:

Common mistakes to avoid

• The 'calories' on food labels are kilocalories (kcal), not small calories (cal).
• One kilocalorie is 4.184 kilojoules; labels that show both may round slightly differently.

About this converter

The converter accepts whole numbers, decimals and negative values, gives the result as you type, and uses full precision internally, so what you copy is as accurate as it can be. It runs in your browser: nothing you type is sent to a server, it keeps working offline once the page has loaded, and there is nothing to install.

Need the opposite direction? Use the Kcal to KJ converter.