Carob is non-toxic and cocoa-free; tiny amounts of plain, unsweetened, xylitol-free carob are safe. Avoid sugary commercial products and always check labels carefully.
Carob is made from dried pods of the carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua), sold as powder, chips, bars, and syrup. It has a naturally sweet flavor used as a cocoa substitute.
Carob is used in baked goods and snack treats. It appears in pet products — dog biscuits, training treats, and frozen dog treats — as a chocolate substitute.
Pet carob treats often combine carob with fats, peanut butter, molasses, or honey. Human carob products may include sugar alcohols. Carob chips and syrups are more concentrated than plain powder.
