AUSSIE semi-sweet carob covered almonds can be used in trail mixes, ice cream, and a variety of your favorite foods or just eat our delicious melt in your mouth carob almonds right out of the bag. Obsessively curated vegan carob crafted for sweet cravings. Made with premium vegan organic ingredients. 8oz bag. Certified Organic by Oregon Tilth. Vegan. Oregon Kosher Certified. Soy free. Gluten free. Caffeine free.
We have a 14-day refund policy, which means you have 14 days after receiving your item to request a refund. carobme is in the business of creating lifelong satisfied customers. If any of our products aren't the AUSSIE experience you were hoping for, contact us and receive your Money-Back Guarantee.
carobme supports plant-based vegan dietary lifestyles and promotes health reforming practices that support global sustainability and our communities.
INGREDIENTS: *Whole Roasted Almonds, *Australian Carob Powder, *Palm Kernel Stearin (Rainforest Alliance Certified), *Coconut Sugar, *Sunflower Lecithin, *Vanilla Flavor, Himalayan Pink Salt. *Organic
AUSSIE semi-sweet carob covered cashews can be used in trail mixes, ice cream, and a variety of your favorite foods or just eat our delicious melt in your mouth carob cashews right out of the bag. Obsessively curated vegan carob crafted for sweet cravings. Made with premium vegan organic ingredients. 8oz bag. Certified Organic by Oregon Tilth. Vegan. Oregon Kosher Certified. Soy free. Gluten free. Caffeine free.
We have a 14-day refund policy, which means you have 14 days after receiving your item to request a refund. carobme is in the business of creating lifelong satisfied customers. If any of our products aren't the AUSSIE experience you were hoping for, contact us and receive your Money-Back Guarantee.
carobme supports plant-based vegan dietary lifestyles and promotes health reforming practices that support global sustainability and our communities.
]]>carobme is a privately-owned company brand that was born out of a desire to manufacture a premium quality, certified organic, vegan alternative to chocolate. Using obsessively curated organic and vegan ingredients, we hit the sweet spot. AUSSIE SHARKBAR®, carob chips, and carob covered nuts are so creamy, sweet, and delicious you will forget you're eating carob. AUSSIE carob is crafted for sweet cravings. Make the world sweeter one AUSSIE bite at a time.
carobme supports plant-based vegan dietary lifestyles and promotes health reforming practices that support global sustainability and our communities.
]]>Organic carob chips are typically considered a healthier alternative to chocolate chips, as they are naturally sweet and do not contain caffeine or theobromine, which can be harmful to some people and animals. Additionally, organic carob chips are often made with organic and non-GMO ingredients, which may appeal to those who prioritize eating sustainably and ethically sourced foods.
]]>Organic carob bars, chips, and covered nuts can be a good alternative to chocolate products, especially for those who are allergic to chocolate or looking for a low-fat and low-calorie alternative. Carob is a natural sweetener and is often used as a substitute for chocolate in recipes. It is also high in fiber, calcium, and antioxidants, making it a healthier alternative to chocolate. Organic carob products are free from harmful chemicals such as lead and cadmium. carobme.com
]]>A carob candy bar is a type of candy bar that is made primarily from carobs, a fruit that is often used as a substitute for chocolate. Carob candy bars are typically vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free, which makes them a good snack option for people who have allergies or dietary restrictions.
The taste of carob is often described as being similar to chocolate, but with a slightly nutty or caramel-like flavor. Carob candy bars are often made by combining carob powder with natural sweeteners, such as coconut sugar, agave, or maple syrup, and other ingredients such as nuts, seeds, or dried fruit.
Carob candy bars may offer some potential health benefits, such as being lower in fat and calories than traditional chocolate bars, and containing antioxidants and minerals. However, it is important to note that some carob candy bars may also contain added sugars or other ingredients that are not as healthy. It is always a good idea to read the label carefully and choose a carob candy bar that is made with natural, whole-food ingredients.
]]>carobme carob bars are made from organic carobs, a fruit that is often used as a substitute for chocolate. Some of the potential health benefits of carob bars include:
Lowers cholesterol: Carob is high in fiber, which may help lower cholesterol levels by binding to cholesterol and removing it from the body.
Good source of antioxidants: Carob contains natural antioxidants, which may help protect the body against cellular damage caused by free radicals.
Rich in minerals: Carob is a good source of calcium, magnesium, potassium, and other minerals that are important for overall health and wellbeing.
Low in fat: Carob is naturally low in fat and calories, which makes it a good snack option for people who are trying to maintain a healthy weight.
Suitable for people with allergies: Carob is a good alternative to chocolate for people who are allergic to cocoa or who want to avoid caffeine or theobromine.
Overall, carob bars can be a healthy snack option for people who are looking for a sweet treat that is also nutritious. However, it is important to note that not all carob bars are created equal, and some may contain added refined sugars or other ingredients that are not as healthy. It is always a good idea to read the label carefully and choose a carob bar that is made with organic, vegan, whole-food ingredients.
]]>carobme semi-sweet carob chips can be used in a variety of your favorite foods or just eat our delicious melt in your mouth carob chips right out of the bag. Obsessively curated vegan carob crafted for sweet cravings. Made with premium vegan organic ingredients. 8oz bag.
Certified Organic by Oregon Tilth. Vegan. Oregon Kosher Certified. Soy free. Gluten free. Caffeine free.
]]>Certified Organic by Oregon Tilth. Vegan. Oregon Kosher Certified. Soy free. Gluten free. Caffeine free.
]]>AUSSIE Semi-Sweet Carob Cashews can be used in trail mixes, ice cream or just eat our delicious melt in your mouth carob cashews right out of the bag. Obsessively curated vegan carob crafted for sweet cravings. Made with premium vegan organic ingredients. 8oz bag.
Certified Organic by Oregon Tilth. Vegan. Oregon Kosher Certified. Soy free. Gluten free. Caffeine free.
]]>carobme manufactures crafted organic, vegan carob Aussie SharkBar® carob chips, carob covered almonds, cashews, and peanuts. Crafted for sweet cravings. Making the world sweeter one Aussie bite at a time. If you cannot eat chocolate anymore no problem, we have you covered with our premium organic vegan carob line of products.
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carobme obsessively manufactures crafted premium organic, vegan carob Aussie SharkBar® crafted for sweet cravings. Making the world sweeter one Aussie bite at a time.
A closer look at the Nutritional panel shows that one 3oz Original Aussie SharkBar® only contains 19 organic coconut added sugar grams. Let's put that in perspective. An Aussie SharkBar® contains 20 squares. So, each square of the Sharkbar only contains less than 1gram of coconut sugar. We also offer two Sharkbars That should make the new year sweet but healthy.
]]>Obsessively curated vegan carob crafted for sweet cravings. SharkBar® is a healthy alternative to chocolate. Australian farm to bar.
]]>Certified Organic by Oregon Tilth. Vegan. Oregon Kosher Certified. Soy free. Gluten free. Caffeine free.
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On the hunt for chocolate chips at the grocery store, you may have come across carob chips. Although they do look strikingly similar to the classic cookie favorite, carob chips are not chocolate. While chocolate stems from cocoa pods, carob stems from carob pods. On shelves, it can typically be found in two forms: chips and powder. So what exactly is carob? Here are the facts.
Carob comes from a pod of a tree of the same name, which is native to Australia, Middle East, and the Mediterranean. The ripe pods contain a sweet pulp that is dried, roasted, and then ground into a powder. That powder is called carob powder and is sold as is or made into chocolate-like chips.
Both the powder and chips are similar to cocoa powder and chocolate chips in color, but their flavor is unique. Carob is less bitter than chocolate and has a roasted, naturally sweet flavor. Carob also happens to be caffeine-free and high in fiber.
Carob doesn’t taste exactly like chocolate, but it has a nutty flavor. So while carob powder and carob chips can be substituted one-for-one for cocoa powder and chocolate chips in recipes, try swapping in half first to get a sense of its unique taste. Both carob powder and carob chips are pretty easy to find these days — online stores and some health food shops.
Have you tried carob?
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AUSSIE semi-sweet and unsweetened carob chocolate button chips can be used in a variety of your favorite foods or just eat our delicious melt in your mouth carob chips right out of the bag. Made with vegan, organic ingredients. Tastes similar to chocolate, but not chocolate. Contains no caffeine. Oregon Kosher Certified.
Aussie unsweetened carob chips INGREDIENTS: *Australian Carob Powder, *Palm Kernel Stearin (Rainforest Alliance Certified), *Inulin (Agave Fiber), *Sunflower Lecithin, *Vanilla Flavor, Himalayan Pink Salt. *Organic
Aussie semi-sweet carob chips INGREDIENTS: *Australian Carob Powder, *Palm Kernel Stearin (Rainforest Alliance Certified), *Coconut Sugar, *Sunflower Lecithin, *Vanilla Flavor, Himalayan Pink Salt. *Organic
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carobme semi-sweet carob almonds can be used in trail mixes, ice cream, and a variety of your favorite foods or just eat our delicious melt in your mouth carob almonds right out of the bag. Obsessively curated vegan carob crafted for sweet cravings. Made with premium vegan organic ingredients. 8oz bag.
Certified Organic by Oregon Tilth. Vegan. Oregon Kosher Certified. Soy free. Gluten free. Caffeine free.
Chocolate is found in many popular desserts and even in some savory dishes. For some people, though, chocolate isn’t a sweet treat. Some people have a sensitivity or an allergy to chocolate or an ingredient in a chocolate-based food.
Do you think you might have a problem with chocolate? Here’s how to tell whether cocoa or chocolate-based foods should be on your “no eat” list.
Chocolate allergies and chocolate sensitivities aren’t the same thing. If you’re allergic to chocolate, your immune system responds to it.
If you are allergic to chocolate and eat it, your immune system will release chemicals like histamine into the bloodstream. These chemicals can affect your:
eyes
nose
throat
lungs
skin
digestive system
If you have an allergy to chocolate, you may have some of these symptoms after eating it or even just coming into direct contact with it:
hives
shortness of breath
stomach cramps
swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
vomiting
wheezing
These symptoms are part of a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. This condition can be life-threatening if you don’t treat it right away.
A chocolate sensitivity is different from an allergy. It’s not caused by an immune system reaction. And most of the time it isn’t life threatening.
If you have a sensitivity, you may be able to eat small amounts of chocolate without any problem. But in larger amounts, chocolate can trigger a reaction in your GI tract or elsewhere in your body.
People who are sensitive to chocolate can have symptoms like:
acne
bloating or gas
constipation
headaches or migraines
skin rash, or contact dermatitis
upset stomach
The caffeine in chocolate can trigger its own set of symptoms, which include:
shakiness
trouble sleeping
fast or uneven heartbeat
high blood pressure
headaches
dizziness
You’re more likely to have a reaction to chocolate if you’re allergic to it or its source, which is cocoa. But ingredients in chocolate-based foods, such as milk, wheat, and nuts, can also set off a reaction.
People with a gluten intolerance or celiac disease sometimes react to chocolate, especially milk chocolate. One theory is that this reaction is caused by cross-reactivity.
In people with celiac disease, the body reacts to gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat. And chocolate contains a protein that’s similar in structure, so the immune system sometimes mistakes it for gluten.
The immune system produces antibodies in response to gluten. These antibodies trigger symptoms like:
bloating
abdominal pain
diarrhea
vomiting
RISK FACTORS
Some people react to the chocolate itself. For example, chocolate contains caffeine, which is a stimulant that’s considered a drug. It can cause shakiness, headaches, and other symptoms in people who are sensitive to it.
Others are allergic or sensitive to ingredients in chocolate-based foods, such as:
nuts, like hazelnuts, peanuts, or almonds
wheat
milk
sugar
It may not seem obvious, but chocolate can also be a problem for people who have a nickel allergy. About 15 percent of the population are allergic to nickel. Dark and milk chocolate, cocoa powder, and many of the nuts found in chocolate bars are high in this metal.
If you’re sensitive or allergic to chocolate or ingredients in chocolate products like nuts or milk, know what’s in your food. At restaurants, ask to have your meals and desserts prepared without chocolate. And when you go to the supermarket, read package labels. Make sure the product doesn’t contain chocolate or cocoa.
Along with candy bars and other desserts, chocolate can hide in places where you might not expect. Cocoa is used to make certain soft drinks, flavored coffees, and alcoholic beverages, like brandy. You can also find it in some jams and marmalades. And, it’s an ingredient in the savory Mexican sauce, mole. Even some medicines, including laxatives, contain chocolate.
People who are sensitive to chocolate may want to try carob. This legume is like chocolate in color and taste. And it can replace chocolate in just about any recipe, from chocolate bars to cookies. Carob is also high in fiber, low in fat, and sugar- and caffeine-free, so it can be a healthier dessert alternative.
If you’re sensitive to the milk in chocolate, consider switching to dark chocolate. Dark chocolate usually doesn’t list milk as an ingredient. But many people with milk allergies have reported reactions after eating it. When the FDA did a review of dark chocolate bars, they found 51 out of 100 bars they tested contained milk that wasn’t listed on the label.
If you have a severe allergy to nuts or milk, you might want to avoid any chocolate products that don’t say nut- or dairy-free.
SEEK HELP
If you suspect you might have an allergy or sensitivity to chocolate, see an allergist. Skin prick and blood tests, or elimination diets can pinpoint whether chocolate is causing your reaction. Depending on the severity of your response to chocolate, your doctor might tell you to avoid it. Or you may only need to limit chocolate in your diet.
If you have a severe allergy, carry an auto-injector wherever you go. This device delivers a dose of the hormone epinephrine to stop the reaction. The shot should relieve symptoms like shortness of breath and swelling of the face.
Chocolate allergies are rare. If you are having a reaction when you eat chocolate, you may be reacting to something else. You also may have a sensitivity instead of an allergy.
Talk to your doctor about your symptoms. If you continue to experience discomfort when eating chocolate, explore alternatives.
Many children outgrow allergies to foods like milk and nuts as they get older. But if you were diagnosed as an adult, you may be stuck with your sensitivity.
]]>There is only one answer to the question “Can dogs have chocolate?” No.
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There is only one answer to the question “Can dogs have chocolate?”
No.
Milk chocolate. Baker’s chocolate. Semi-sweet chocolate. For our canine companions, there is nothing sweet about chocolate or chocolate poisoning. However, while dog owners may understand that chocolate and dogs don’t mix, our lovable dogs do not.
That’s how I found myself on the other end of the stethoscope, so to speak, as my sister’s dog was at the ER being treated for chocolate poisoning. By sharing this true story of Banjo and the bag of semi-sweet chocolate chips, I hope to arm you with tips and resources you need in the case of chocolate poisoning.
It was the night after Thanksgiving, and I sat in the waiting room of the veterinary emergency and critical care center next to my sister who was consumed by mom guiltand worry. Her beloved dog Banjo was “in the back” after eating half a pound of chocolate chips. While home alone at grandma’s house, Banjo had gotten into chocolate chips.
Upon returning from a family outing, my sister’s husband found the first piece of evidence. He held up Exhibit A—an empty chocolate chip bag that looked as though it had been licked clean, which in fact it had. Luckily, we had this clue and I could read the label on the package. Milk chocolate? White chocolate? Semi-sweet? The type of chocolate would help me determine the gravity of the situation and how I reacted to it.
Whether or not my sister noticed the shadow of concern that crossed my face, I could certainly see hers. As an informed dog mom, she knew the correct answer to the question “Can dogs have chocolate?” Banjo’s life depended on our quick action, her accurate estimate of the amount of chocolate he had eaten, and the type of chocolate he had consumed.
In addition to knowing what kind of chocolate was consumed, we needed an estimate of how much chocolate Banjo had eaten. Keri estimated that the bag had been half full, which meant he could have eaten six to eight ounces of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
At that point, I ran upstairs to my computer to triage Banjo. I needed to leave him briefly so that I could punch the data into a chocolate toxicity calculator. To get an accurate assessment, I entered three key pieces of data:
Using the chocolate toxicity calculator, six ounces for Banjo yielded this message: “Tremors and seizures…ER treatment needed!”
I reran the calculations for eight ounces of ingestion. When I did that, the image of an animated dog that appears along with the written results of the toxicity level fell over on his back with all four feet in the air and the words “potential death” flashed on the screen.
We were hours away from both my own veterinary practice and Banjo’s regular veterinarian. We had to seek veterinary care nearby. And time mattered.
Just a few minutes had passed since we had walked in the door and Banjo had greeted us with a wagging tail. But as I read the words “potential death” on the toxicity calculator, my four-year-old said, “Mom…I stepped in something,” and I knew that couldn’t be good. I would expect both vomiting and diarrhea from a dog poisoned by chocolate, and Banjo had delivered.
There, on the carpet with my son’s foot planted in the center, was a dark brown liquefied mess. I wasn’t sure if it was diarrhea or vomit. Either way, it was in Banjo’s favor because his system had kicked out a lot of the toxin, less to be digested and absorbed. (Our home team clean-up crew later identified it—along with three more piles—as vomit.)
While I was running downstairs with news about the toxicity levels, my nephew announced, “Banjo’s hind legs are shaking.”
I had packed my stethoscope for our Thanksgiving road trip, so I quickly dug it out and listened to Banjo’s heart. I was listening for an elevated heart rate and an abnormal heart rhythm. His heart rate and rhythm were both normal. Two wins, I thought!
The best course of action for Banjo was to go to a 24-hour emergency veterinary facility where he would receive overnight monitoring and treatment. After examination, the ER vet reported that Banjo was exhibiting signs of central nervous system excitability and his heart rate had climbed to 250 beats per minute. (Granted, when dogs get excited—ie. arriving at the ER hospital— their heart rates go up. But 250 beats per minute is an extremely high heart rate for an adult, larger-breed dog.)
They had induced vomiting and the plan was to keep Banjo overnight on IV fluids, give him a sedative to help him relax and a medication to help lower his heart rate called propranolol.
After hearing all this, my sister said with wide eyes, “Oh, this sounds much worse than what we thought.”
I said, “Well, hang on a second. I think there’s a good prognosis with appropriate treatment,” and I looked at the vet for back up.
After the standard “no guarantees” opening disclaimer, she offered her reassurance and promised to call first thing in the morning with an update. And if there were any changes during his overnight stay, she would call immediately.
Sensing that the consult was over, I said to my sister, “Do you want to say goodbye to Banjo?” I looked at the vet, and I said, “Would that be okay?” She looked at me like, “Oh, lady, are you really a vet?” And here’s why: Banjo was settled. He was getting his treatments. Veterinarians know that a visit would cause a disruption to the patient.
But I think somewhere in the deep recesses of my subconscious I had this thought…
What if Banjo doesn’t make it?
I knew my sister would never forgive herself for not saying goodbye, so I had blurted out the suggestion. My sister calmly said, “Well, wouldn’t that get him all keyed up? I’m okay not saying goodbye. I think it’s better for him.”
Those words of unconditional love for her dog touched my heart.
The dog’s recovery from eating chocolate
Keri got a call early the next morning from the ER vet. Banjo was doing well enough to go home. Thankfully, his story had a happy ending. But not all do. Two of my veterinary colleagues had lost patients to chocolate toxicity. However, in both of those cases, there was a significant lag time between ingestion and veterinary treatment.
Remember, if your dog ingests chocolate or any toxin, it’s always less dangerous for your dog if you take a “triage and treat early” approach. Our swift action may have saved Banjo’s life.
Finally, keep important phone numbers and information handy including:
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The fruit of the carob tree is used to make medicinal and food products, such as carob chips. Carob is a tasty food, but it’s also used for a variety of health concerns, including high cholesterol, high blood sugar, diarrhea, vomiting, cough and even obesity. (1)
What Is Carob?To answer what are carob chips, let me first tell you what is carob and what is carob powder. Carob comes from the carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua), which belongs to the pea family and is native to the eastern Mediterranean region. The tree produces fruit in the form of an edible bean or pod.
Carob trees, which are typically around 50 feet tall, have these pods that hold anywhere from five to 15 hard brown carob seeds that are surrounded by naturally sweet and edible pulp. Once these carob pods are ripe they can be dried and ground into carob powder. Carob powder is used to make food products like carob chips, and it’s also used medicinally for a variety of health concerns.
Locust bean gum is another name for carob bean gum, and it comes from carob seeds. Carob gum is often used in skin care and other cosmetic products as a stabilizer, binder or texture enhanced. Carob bean gum is also added to many food products, such as baked goods for these same reasons.
5 Health Benefits of Carob ChipsThese are some of my favorite carob health benefits:
Diarrhea Relief
Lower High Cholesterol
Combat Obesity
Blood Sugar Management
Mineral Provider
1. Diarrhea Relief
One of carob’s most impressive benefits is its scientifically demonstrated ability to help with diarrhea. Diarrhea is an unpleasant yet common problem experienced by many people for various reasons. When you’re dealing with diarrhea, the food and liquid you take in ends up passing way too quickly through your system, resulting in an increased frequency and wateriness of your stools.
Carob powder has actually been used successfully to help treat cases of diarrhea in infants, children and adults. Why is carob helpful with this common digestive complaint? It appears to be carob’s high tannin content, which has an “astringent or binding effect on the mucous membranes of the intestinal tract.” (2) What are tannins? Tannins are water-soluble polyphenols that are present in many foods and beverages, including tea, pomegranate juice and berries, to name a few.
A double-blind trial published in the Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition looked at the effects of carob on infants between the ages of three months and 21 months with acute diarrhea due to a bacteria or virus. The infants were given oral rehydration fluids and randomly took either a placebo or a carob pod powder consisting of 40 percent tannins and 26.4 percent dietary fiber at a maximum of 15 grams per day for up to six days. What were the results? Normalized bowel movements and body temperature occurred more quickly in the infants who received the carob powder. They also stopped vomiting sooner. In addition, the young subjects accepted and tolerated the carob well. (3)
2. Lower High Cholesterol
A study published in the international journal Plant Foods for Human Nutrition found that carob’s insoluble fiber has positive effects on cholesterols levels. The study credits the carob insoluble fiber’s rich content of polyphenols with its ability to decrease both LDL (“bad”) cholesterol as well as overall cholesterol in people with high cholesterol.
This 2010 study randomly divided 88 subjects with hypercholesterolemia to consume carob fiber or a placebo for four weeks. The results of the study reveal that carob consumers lowered their blood lipid levels in the following ways: overall cholesterol decreased by 6.1 percent; LDL cholesterol was reduced by 8.9 percent; LDL:HDL ratio went down by 14.3 percent; and triglycerides declined by 23.4 percent. Overall, the study concludes that consuming insoluble fiber rich in polyphenols (like the fiber found in carob) may be an effective natural way to both avoid and treat high cholesterol — making carob a cholesterol-lowering food. (4)
3. Combat Obesity
Research has shown that the consuming carob fiber has positive metabolic properties. Since carob contains insoluble fiber, it can help improve digestion and fend off constipation. Carob fiber can also help consumers to feel fuller longer, which is very helpful when it comes avoiding overeating and trying to maintain or reach a healthy body weight.
Studies have even shown that eating carob fiber can decrease levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin after a meal and improve fat oxidation, which are both great news for people struggling with obesity. According to researchers, “Carob powder could be a potential candidate in [the] diet regimen of obese and overweight persons.”(5, 6, 7)
4. Blood Sugar Management
Carob’s fiber content is also excellent for helping maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Carob does have a natural sugar content so you don’t want to overdo it, but in moderation insoluble fiber from carob and other nutritious foods as part of an overall healthy diet may help to decrease the likelihood of becoming a type 2 diabetic. (8)
5. Mineral Provider
You might already be familiar with how important minerals are to our health, but did you know that carob is a great source of minerals? It’s true! Carob contains significant amounts of key macrominerals (ones you need large amounts of daily) like potassium and calcium. In fact, when you compare 15 grams of carob powder to 15 grams of whole milk, the carob actually wins when it comes to calcium — the milk contains 16.9 milligrams of calcium while the carob powder contains 52 milligrams!
Other important macrominerals like magnesium and phosphorus are also found in carob fruit in lesser amounts. Plus, carob contains trace or microminerals, such as iron, copper, zinc and manganese. (9)
Carob NutritionCarob nutrition includes some protein, fiber as well as key nutrients like calcium, potassium and iron. Carob chips are made from carob powder. Just two tablespoons (12 grams) of carob powder contain roughly: (10)
28 calories
10.4 grams carbohydrates
0.8 gram protein
0 grams fat
5.6 grams fiber
5.6 grams sugars
4 milligrams sodium
42 milligrams calcium (4.2 percent DV)
100 milligrams potassium (2.9 percent DV)
0.32 milligrams iron (1.8 percent DV)
Unlike chocolate’s main ingredient, cacao or cocoa (the name for cacao once it is roasted), carob pods have a natural sweetness. Carob taste is somewhat similar to chocolate but distinctly different at the same time.
Carob vs. chocolate, who wins? Well it’s more of a comparison between carob and cocoa, chocolate’s main ingredient. Let’s compare to see who wins in the carob chocolate duel:
Carob naturally has no caffeine while the cocoa used to make chocolate naturally contains caffeine. (11)
Carob has no oxalic acid (a naturally occurring substance found in chocolate and other foods that inhibits calcium absorption) while chocolate definitely contains this organic compound.
Cocoa powder has more iron than carob, but carob powder contains some iron as well as key electrolytes like calcium and potassium.
Carob is higher in beneficial dietary fiber compared to cocoa. (12)
Carob does not contain theobromine, which is what makes cocoa and chocolate naturally bitter in flavor.
Carob chips as well as carob powder, carob bars, carob syrup and carob extract can typically be found at your local health store or online. You can substitute an equal amount of carob powder for cocoa powder. You can also use half carob chips/powder and half cocoa chips/powder in a recipe.
Carob chips add nutrients and natural sweetness to whatever they go into. So what are some of the best ways to use carob chips? For starters, carob chips are awesome in muffins, breads, cakes, pancakes and cookies. You can also add carob powder to smoothies.
Scientific trials have used specific amounts of carob for medicinal purposes. Remember to drink plenty of water when taking carob powder. For the treatment of diarrhea, 15 grams of carob powder per day has been used for children while 20 grams per day has been used for adults. The powder can also be mixed into foods like mashed sweet potatoes or unsweetened applesauce to make it easier to take the carob for medicinal reasons. Of course, if a young child has diarrhea it’s important he or she receives adequate hydration and is under the care of a pediatrician.
Carob Chips RecipesCarob chips can be used in any recipe that calls for chocolate chips so there are a ton of options.
Here are some healthy and absolutely delicious carob recipes to try:
Carob Bark Recipe
Gluten-Free Vegan Carob Brownies
Gluten-Free Banana Buckwheat Carob Muffins
You can also substitute carob chips for chocolate chips in these healthy treats:
Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Chocolate Banana Muffins Recipe
Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe
Carob’s use by humans is said to go all the way back to the ancient Egyptians, who fed carob pods to their livestock. It’s also believed that they used carob gum as a form of glue in their mummification processes.
The carob tree is also referred to as St. John’s bread or locust bean. These alternative namesakes originate from the Biblical story of John the Baptist when he was eating locusts. It’s debatable, but some people believe that the “locusts” were carob pods rather than the actual insects. (13)
There are actually male and female carob trees, and the male trees do not produce any fruit. (14)
Carob Precautions and InteractionsYou may already know how chocolate is toxic to dogs, but can dogs eat carob? Carob is safe for dogs. According to the ASPCA, it is non-toxic to dogs, cats and horses. (15)
It’s possible yet not common to have an allergic reaction to carob, so if you notice any allergic symptoms, discontinue use.
There are currently no established interactions with carob. However, always check with your doctor before incorporating carob into your diet as a food or supplement if you are currently taking any other medications or have any ongoing health concerns.
Final Thoughts on Carob ChipsIf you’ve been a lifelong fan of chocolate and chocolate chips, I totally get it, but if you’ve never tried carob chips I really think they are worth a taste. With a naturally sweet and rich taste, you just may start subbing carob chips for chocolate chips in your next recipe. With zero caffeine yet lots of flavor and nutrients plus impressive health benefits, carob is a great healthy treat, in moderation of course.
The top five benefits of carbo chips include:
Diarrhea Relief
Lower High Cholesterol
Combat Obesity
Blood Sugar Management
Mineral Provider
Professor David Guest, from the University of Sydney's Department of Plant and Food Sciences, says a worldwide shortage of cocoa has been predicted by 2020.
Prof Guest says there are a number of reasons for the expected dearth.
"Firstly, about 70 per cent of our beans come from West Africa and West Africa's been experiencing a whole range of political and social upheaval over the past couple of decades," he says.
"In other countries like Indonesia there's a range of factors like the build up of pests and diseases and a whole range of crops farmers are growing that are more profitable than cocoa."
Prof Guest says farmers are moving into higher return crops such as coffee and maize that are less susceptible to pests and diseases.
]]>Professor David Guest, from the University of Sydney's Department of Plant and Food Sciences, says a worldwide shortage of cocoa has been predicted by 2020.
Prof Guest says there are a number of reasons for the expected dearth.
"Firstly, about 70 per cent of our beans come from West Africa and West Africa's been experiencing a whole range of political and social upheaval over the past couple of decades," he says.
"In other countries like Indonesia there's a range of factors like the build up of pests and diseases and a whole range of crops farmers are growing that are more profitable than cocoa."
Prof Guest says farmers are moving into higher return crops such as coffee and maize that are less susceptible to pests and diseases.
He also says the intense labour required to grow cocoa is an issue.
"It takes you about three years after you plant a tree to start harvesting and once the tree is mature you should be able to harvest it for about 15-20 years if you look after it properly," he says.
"But, then again, that's another problem, you need to look after these trees properly which requires labour, and labour shortages are a real problem in the cocoa-growing areas.
"It could be there's a drift of young people to the cities, that people are not healthy all the time, there's a whole range of factors that mean labour is in a real shortage in cocoa-growing areas."
Prof Guest says demand is also rapidly growing in regions that haven't previously consumed a lot of chocolate.
"The big chocolate companies are very aware of this because they're facing a shortage of cocoa beans but they're also very concerned because of the increasing markets in countries like China and India," he says.
"At the moment the average person in those countries eats 50 grams of chocolate a year, we (in Australia) eat about six or seven kilograms, so you can imagine what that does to demand."
Prof Guest says consumers should expect to see prices begin to rise in about 2018.
"We're ok for the next year or two, but after that as the demand for beans goes up most of the chocolate companies are predicting we'll be about a million tonnes of beans short of demand by 2020," he says.
"You'll be expecting to pay twice the price if we're looking at 2020."
The problem is so complex, that Prof Guest says there is no single solution.
"Fair Trade and the Rainforest Alliance and those sort of certification schemes are good for small groups of farmers, but in Indonesia there are half a million cocoa farmers and in Papua New Guinea there's 150,000 families dependant on cocoa," he says.
"These certification schemes work in particular villages but we're a long way away from having certification schemes that would benefit the vast majority of growers.
"To guarantee the supply of cocoa beans in the long-term you need to make it a viable source of income for cocoa-growing families."
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Carob is a tree (Ceratonia siliqua) in the pea family, which grows pods that contain seeds that can be used in food. These seeds are dried or roasted and ground to a powder that is slightly sweet and is commonly used as a chocolate substitute. The seeds are also commonly known as locust beans, which are the source of the food-thickening agent known as locust bean gum.
]]>Carob is a tree (Ceratonia siliqua) in the pea family, which grows pods that contain seeds that can be used in food. These seeds are dried or roasted and ground to a powder that is slightly sweet and is commonly used as a chocolate substitute. The seeds are also commonly known as locust beans, which are the source of the food-thickening agent known as locust bean gum.
Chocolate Substitute
Carob powder is high in fibre and unlike chocolate it does not contain caffeine or theobromine (the chemical that makes chocolate toxic for dogs), which allows it to be a safe chocolate alternative for dogs and humans alike.
Interestingly, carob also contains protein, linoleic acid, alpha-linolenic acid, manganese, and iron. Because it is naturally sweet, unlike bitter cacao beans (the beans used for chocolate), carob requires less sugar to be turned into a sweet chocolate alternative. This allows it to be a lower calorie treat during times of intense chocolate cravings.
fibre
Because carob can also be processed into a food-thickening agent, it has long been used in the treatment of diarrhea and gastroesophageal reflux. Locust bean gum was used historically as an additive in infant formula to help stop reflux in infants. Supplementation with carob fibre has also been shown to help people with high cholesterol to bring down their LDL ("bad") cholesterol within 6 weeks. Because carob is an excellent source of soluble fibre, it can also help to regulate blood sugar levels and is a traditional medicine used in Israel for the treatment of diabetes. For more information on the benefits of fibre, please click here.
Blood Sugar Regulation – D-chiro-inositol
In addition to carob's fibre content providing blood sugar regulating capability, it also contains D-chiro-inositol (DCI). DCI is a particular isomer of inositol that has been found to have many health benefits, one of which is reducing insulin resistance. This allows DCI to be a major contributor in the treatment of metabolic syndrome (Syndrome X). For more information on DCI, please see our inositol article here.
How can I get more carob?
Carob is available in a wide variety of forms in both the health food store and the regular grocery store. It can be found as a powder, locust bean gum, or as carob chips that can be added to baking as a substitute for chocolate chips. There is no recommended dosage for carob supplementation in the diet. You can simply enjoy carob as a tasty addition to your daily meals and as a chocolate substitute to help regulate your blood sugar. For the insulin sensitivity benefits of D-chiro-inositol, at least 500mg must be eaten daily.