Library
K is for Kilojoules - Kilocalories
Kilojoules– Kilocalories– what is the difference?
The energy in foods are measured in joules or calories.
A kilocalorie is frequently referred to as a calorie and the most commonly used measure for Australian foods is the kilojoule.
1 calorie (cal or kcal) = 4.18 kilojoules (kJ)
A day’s food energy intake is generally in the range of:
- <8000-14000 kJ (1900-3300 kcals) for males, and
- 6000-10000 kJ(1400-2400 kcals) for females.
1 gram of carbohydrate = 17 kJ (4 kcals)
1 gram of protein = 16 kJ (4 kcals)
1 gram of fat/oil = 37 kJ (9 kcals)
1 gram of alcohol = 29 kJ (7 kcals)
