Carob refers to the seeds and fruit of the carob tree. Carob products have a variety of uses and may offer health benefits.

Carob is a type of tree native to the Mediterranean region. It produces dark brown pods that contain hard seeds surrounded by fruit. Carob powder is high in fiber and commonly used as a caffeine-free alternative to chocolate.

People on the island of Cyprus cultivated carob for centuries to produce a sweet syrup from the fruit. Today, people use parts of the carob pod as a chocolate substitute, natural thickeners, and animal feed.

Carob has several uses, such as the following:

Chocolate substitute

Carob is a similar-tasting alternative to cocoa and has natural sweetness; people commonly use it as a substitute for chocolate. When roasted, carob powder resembles cocoa in taste.

Compared with cocoa, carob has around the same amount of calories and fiber but is higher in carbohydrates and lower in protein and fat.

Carob gum

Carob gum is a thickening agent made from the seeds of carob pods. It is also known as locust bean gum.

The gum from carob seeds is used in food products as a:

  • thickener
  • stabilizer
  • emulsifier

Because of these properties, carob gum is also an additive in many cosmetic products.

Other uses

Not only does carob have nutritional uses, but it also may help with reforestation efforts. Carob trees are hardy plants that can thrive in depleted soil and are resistant to drought and fire.

People have also traditionally used pulp from the carob fruit as feed for animals.

Carob is a nutrient-rich food that is generally safe for most people. Carob fruit is high in natural sugars and dietary fiber and low in fat.

One cup of carob flour contains:

  • Calories: 229
  • Carbs: 91.6 grams (g)
  • Protein: 4.76 g
  • Fiber: 41 g
  • Fat: .67 g

Carob is naturally high in fiber and contains no caffeine. While research is limited, a few studies suggest it may aid in blood sugar management when used in place of chocolate.

Metabolic health

The high fiber content of carob fruit may help regulate blood sugar.

Additionally, carob contains a compound called d-pinitol, which may help with insulin regulation.

A 2022 study found that participants who received d-pinitol along with carbohydrates had slower absorption rates, which helped manage insulin levels.

Carob syrup also has a low glycemic index. According to a 2025 study, daily consumption of carob syrup decreased postprandial glucose levels, total cholesterol, and waist circumference compared with a control syrup.

Environmental impact

Carob trees can thrive in harsh conditions, surviving long periods of warm temperatures and drought.

Their lower environmental footprint allows carob trees to be cultivated on a larger scale, increasing their potential as a sustainable food source.

Carob is a nutrient-rich food that contains many important vitamins and minerals.

Carob powder is a healthy caffeine-free alternative to cocoa and may also benefit your metabolic health.

Experts consider carob a sustainable natural food source because it has a low impact on the environment.