What term describes the number of kilojoules per gram of food?

The term that describes the number of kilojoules per gram of food is energy density. This concept is significant in nutrition because it helps in understanding how much energy (in kilojoules) a food item provides relative to its weight. Foods with high energy density contain a lot of kilojoules in a small volume, while those with low energy density provide fewer kilojoules in the same volume. This is particularly useful for making dietary choices, especially for individuals looking to manage their weight.

For instance, fruits and vegetables typically have a low energy density, making them preferable for those aiming to consume fewer kilojoules without sacrificing volume, while high-fat or sugar-rich foods often have a high energy density. Therefore, understanding energy density is crucial for making informed food choices that align with nutritional goals.

The other concepts mentioned, such as caloric content, refer to the total energy a food item provides but do not specifically relate to the measurement per gram. Nutritional value encompasses a broader spectrum of nutrients a food provides rather than focusing solely on energy. Fat content is limited to the amount of fat in food and does not provide information about the overall energy per gram.