What is the most calorie-dense food?

Pure oils and fats are the most calorie-dense at 9 kcal/g. Nuts and nut butters are about 5-6 kcal/g. Pure sugar is 4 kcal/g.

Why does calorie density matter?

Research shows people tend to eat a similar volume of food daily. Choosing lower-density foods lets you eat more volume for fewer calories.

How does water affect calorie density?

Water adds weight but zero calories, so water-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, soups) have very low calorie density.

Calorie Density Calculator

Calculate the calorie density of a food (calories per gram). Useful for weight management and comparing foods.

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Calories in Portion

kcal

Portion Weight

Calories Per Gram

2.50 kcal/g

Calories Per Ounce70.9 kcal/oz

Density Category (0-9 scale)5.0

View formula & how it works →

How to Calculate Calorie Density

Formula

Calorie Density = Calories / Weight (grams)

Density Categories

Very low: less than 0.6 kcal/g (most vegetables, fruits)

Low: 0.6-1.5 kcal/g (grains, lean proteins)

Medium: 1.5-4.0 kcal/g (meats, bread, cheese)

High: 4.0-9.0 kcal/g (nuts, oils, butter)

Eating more low-density foods helps with satiety and weight management.

Example Calculation

A 100 g serving of almonds has 250 kcal.

01Calorie density: 250 / 100 = 2.5 kcal/g.
02This is a medium-density food.
03Per ounce: 2.5 x 28.35 = 70.9 kcal/oz.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Recipe Scaling Guide - How to Double, Halve, or Adjust Any Recipe

Learn how to scale recipes up or down accurately. Covers multiplying ingredients, adjusting cooking times and temperatures, and avoiding common scaling mistakes.

Calorie Density Calculator

How to Calculate Calorie Density

Formula

Density Categories

Example Calculation

Frequently Asked Questions

Recipe Scaling Guide - How to Double, Halve, or Adjust Any Recipe

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