The pods are ground into a powdered form and used as a popular chocolate substitute. Rich in B vitamins and minerals, it has only one-third the calories of chocolate (cacao), and it is virtually fat-free while chocolate is half fat. Carob is free from the stimulants caffeine and theobromine found in chocolate which can be addictive & can cause allergies. Carob can be substituted for cocoa powder in any recipes. Instead of coffee for your morning pick-me-up, add this delicious powder into your next tea, smoothie, nut milk, juice, or dessert. Carob lowers the glycemic index of foods it is mixed, making it easy to create delicious and healthy shakes, cakes, truffles, fudge, & more