Quick answer
1 kJ = 0.239 kcal. Divide 1 by 4.184 to check: 1 ÷ 4.184 = 0.239.
How to convert 1 kJ to calories
- Start with 1 kJ.
- Divide by 4.184: 1 ÷ 4.184 = 0.239 kcal.
- For small calories, use kJ × 1,000 ÷ 4.184: that gives 239.01 cal.
You may also see this searched as 1 kj to cal, 1 kj to calorie or 1 kilojoules to calories. All give the same answer. The general method is explained in how to convert kJ to calories.
1 kJ in context
- less than 0.1% of the 8,700 kJ average-adult reference day on Australian and New Zealand labels.
- less than 0.1% of a 2,000 kcal reference day, as used on EU and US labels.
- Reference intakes are label conventions. Your own needs depend on age, sex, size and activity. See how many kJ you should eat per day.
Good to know
One kilojoule is a very small amount of food energy. It is about 0.06 g of carbohydrate or protein, or 0.03 g of fat. This value is useful for remembering the basic factor: 1 kJ is 0.239 kcal.
Nearby conversions
Browse all popular conversions or the kJ to calories chart.
Frequently asked questions
How many calories is 1 kJ?
1 kJ is 0.239 kcal (food calories). Divide 1 by 4.184 to check.
How many small calories (cal) is 1 kJ?
1 kJ is 239.01 cal, since 1 kcal is 1,000 cal.
What percentage of a daily intake is 1 kJ?
About less than 0.1% of the 8,700 kJ reference day used in Australia and New Zealand, or about less than 0.1% of a 2,000 kcal reference day.
Last updated 11 Oct 2026. How we calculate.