Leguminous evergreen tree (Ceratonia siliqua) native to the eastern Mediterranean region and cultivated elsewhere. It is believed that John the Baptist fed on the "locusts" on which were carob pods. Hence it is sometimes referred to as Saint John's bread or Locust been. The tree bears compound, glossy leaves with thick leaflets. Its red flowers are followed by flat, leathery pods that contain hard brown seeds embedded in a

sweet, edible pulp that tastes similar to chocolate. It is often used as a substitute for chocolate because of this. It is also considered as a healthier alternative to it since it does not caffeine or oxalic acid and has just half the fat of cocoa. Fresh or dried carob pods, as well as in powdered carobs is available in food stores. Carob pods are chewed raw in the Middle Eastern region. It is also used as animal feed in the regions where it grows in abundance.