Kilocalorie to Joule Converter (kcal to J)

How to Convert Kilocalorie to Joule

Formula: Joule = Kilocalorie × 4184

Example: 1 kcal = 4184 J

You can also use the interactive converter above. Simply enter any Kilocalorie value and the equivalent Joule value will appear instantly. Click the ⇄ button to reverse the conversion.

Here is a closer look at what Kilocalorie and Joule are used for, plus answers to the questions people ask most about this conversion.

Step-by-step example — Convert 200 kcal to J:

What is Kilocalorie and Joule?

A Kilocalorie (kcal) equals 1,000 calories and is the actual unit behind the 'Calorie' shown on food nutrition labels.

A Joule (J) is the SI unit of energy, used as the scientific standard for measuring work and heat.

Real World Uses of Kilocalorie to Joule Conversion

• Kilocalorie: Commonly used for estimating calories burned during exercise.
• Joule: Commonly used for measuring electrical and mechanical energy in engineering.
• Kilocalorie: Commonly used on US and international food labels to state calorie content.
• Joule: Commonly used in physics and engineering as the SI base unit for work and energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the formula to convert Kilocalorie to Joule?

The formula is: Joule = Kilocalorie x 4184. Multiply any Kilocalorie value by 4184 to get the equivalent in Joule.

What is 1 Kilocalorie in Joule?

1 kcal = 4184 J.

How many Kilocalorie are in 1 Joule?

1 J = 0.000239005736137667 kcal.

Is Kilocalorie bigger or smaller than Joule?

Kilocalorie is bigger than Joule. 1 Kilocalorie = 4184 J.

What is 500 kcal in J?

500 kcal = 2,092,000 J.

What is 5000 J in kcal?

5000 J = 1.195028681 kcal.

Why does a food label's "Calories" really mean kilocalories?

Nutrition labeling adopted the capitalized "Calorie" as shorthand for kilocalorie, so "200 Calories" on a label means 200 kcal, not 200 of the small chemistry calories.