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    Global Average Calorie Intake

    Last updated: January 29, 2026

    2,960 kcal

    kcal/day

    The global average daily calorie intake is approximately 2,960 kcal per person. The United States leads at 3,782 kcal/day, while India averages 2,533 kcal. Overconsumption in wealthy nations contrasts with undernutrition in developing ones.

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    Historical Trend

    Source: FAO

    Global Average Calorie Intake by Country

    Country Value (kcal/day) ↓Source
    United States3,782FAO
    France3,558FAO
    Germany3,539FAO
    United Kingdom3,412FAO
    Russia3,362FAO
    South Korea3,334FAO
    Brazil3,263FAO
    Australia3,256FAO
    United Arab Emirates3,200FAO
    Saudi Arabia3,190FAO
    China3,073FAO
    South Africa2,962FAO
    Japan2,726FAO
    Nigeria2,700FAO
    India2,533FAO
    Pakistan2,440FAO

    Why This Average Exists

    Calorie intake data reveals both overconsumption patterns driving obesity and undernourishment in food-insecure regions.

    Factors That Affect Global Average Calorie Intake

    • Income levels
    • Food availability
    • Agricultural productivity
    • Cultural diet patterns
    • Food waste
    • Urbanization

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Methodology & Data Sources

    The data presented on this page is compiled from publicly available datasets published by international organizations including the World Bank, World Health Organization (WHO), International Labour Organization (ILO), United Nations, NASA, and national statistical agencies.

    Global averages are calculated using population-weighted or arithmetic means depending on the metric. Country-level data reflects the most recent available figures, typically from 2024–2024. Where gaps exist, the latest available data point is used.

    All figures are subject to revision as source organizations update their datasets. For the most authoritative data, we encourage consulting the original sources linked in the table above.

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