Calorierijk

Calorierijk is a Dutch adjective describing food or meals that supply a high number of calories relative to their weight. In nutrition, such foods are said to have a high energy density, meaning they deliver many calories per gram rather than just per serving.

Energy density is influenced by water content and macronutrient composition. Fat provides about 9 kcal per gram, while carbohydrates and proteins provide about 4 kcal per gram; water and fiber add little energy. Calorierijke foods are often low in water and high in fat or sugar, or both.

Common examples include nuts and seeds, oils and fats, cheese and other full-fat dairy, fatty meats, fried items, pastries, candies, and dried fruits. Some calorierijke foods are nutrient-dense, such as avocado or dark chocolate with nuts, while others are energy-dense but offer few nutrients.

In diet planning, calorierijk foods can support weight gain or high-energy needs, but excess intake may contribute to overweight and metabolic problems. The term is widely used on Dutch nutrition labeling and guidance to describe energy density, not a blanket statement about nutrient quality.