Packaging: 200g (also available in 500g, 1kg, 5kg, and 10kg) containing organic Carob powder.
(The price includes VAT.)
Carob flour is an excellent substitute for cocoa powder.
It is made from dried roasted carob pods and closely resembles cocoa powder (although it is much sweeter, containing 60% fewer calories than chocolate). This powder is often used as a natural sweetener in baked goods. It is sweet and has a unique flavor.
Read below to discover the health benefits of carob powder.
Low in Fat
Carob powder contains virtually no fat. If you're following a low-fat diet, carob powder is a good choice. Just keep in mind that it is higher in sugar and carbohydrates compared to cocoa powder.
Just 2 tablespoons of carob powder contain 6 grams of sugar, about 1.5 teaspoons.
One cup of carob powder has 51 grams of sugar and less than 1 gram of fat. In contrast, a cup of chocolate chips has 92 grams of sugar and 50 grams of fat.
Low in Sodium
According to the Mayo Clinic, the average American consumes 3,400 mg of sodium daily, which is much more than the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of 2,300 mg. The American Heart Association recommends even less, just 1,500 mg per day.
Too much sodium in your diet can increase the risk of:
- High blood pressure
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Osteoporosis
- Kidney problems
Carob powder contains no sodium. It is an excellent option for those on a low-sodium diet.
Contains Calcium, but No Oxalates
Calcium is an essential mineral for bone health. It also helps your heart, nerves, and muscles function well. Two tablespoons of carob provide 42 mg of calcium or 4% of the RDA.
Cocoa contains oxalates, which reduce the body's ability to absorb calcium. A high-oxalate diet also increases the risk of kidney stones. Carob powder does not contain oxalates.
High in Dietary Fiber
Two tablespoons of carob contain nearly 5 grams of fiber, over 20% of the daily value. Fiber helps:
- Keep you feeling full, leading to eating less
- Prevent constipation
- Maintain healthy intestines
- Control blood sugar levels
- Reduce cholesterol levels
A 2010 study found that antioxidant polyphenols in insoluble fiber lower total cholesterol and LDL (bad) cholesterol in people with high cholesterol.
In 2 tablespoons of carob powder, you’ll find:
- Iron: 0.35 mg
- Magnesium: 6 mg
- Potassium: 99 mg
- Riboflavin: 0.055 mg
- Niacin: 0.228 mg
Gluten-Free
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. In some people, gluten triggers the immune system to attack the small intestine, a condition known as celiac disease. If you have celiac disease, you may be sensitive to gluten and should avoid gluten-containing foods. Carob powder is gluten-free.
Helps Relieve Diarrhea
Thanks to its tannin content, carob powder has been used as a natural remedy for diarrhea. Tannins are polyphenols found in some plants. Research suggests that administering tannin-rich powder with rehydration fluid is safe and effective for treating acute diarrhea in infants aged 3 to 21 months.
Caffeine-Free
Caffeine can cause unpleasant side effects, such as:
- Insomnia
- Rapid heart rate
- Nervousness
- Irritability
- Stomach upset
- Muscle tremors
Carob powder contains no caffeine, making it a good option for those sensitive to caffeine or looking for a chocolate substitute.
A Good Source of Antioxidants
According to a 2003 study, carob fibers are a rich source of antioxidant polyphenols. The study identified 24 polyphenolic compounds in carob fiber, primarily gallic acid and flavonoids. Both gallic acid and flavonoids have been shown to reduce oxidative stress.
Gallic acid has also been found to scavenge free radicals and kill cancer cells. Research indicates that flavonoids have anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antidiabetic, and neuroprotective properties.
Tyramine-Free
Tyramine is a byproduct of the amino acid tyrosine. According to the National Headache Foundation, foods containing tyramine may trigger migraine headaches. Since chocolate contains tyramine, it is not recommended for those prone to migraines. Carob contains no tyramine and is considered safe for consumption by migraine sufferers.
Ways to Use Carob
Try these methods to incorporate carob powder into your diet:
- Add carob powder to smoothies
- Mix carob powder into yogurt or ice cream
- Incorporate carob powder into your favorite bread dough
- Make a warm carob beverage instead of hot chocolate
- Replace caramel in sweets with carob
Conclusion
Carob powder is a healthy alternative to cocoa, although minimally processed cocoa powder has its own health benefits. Since carob powder is naturally sweet, there is no need to add sugar or other sweeteners when using it in your favorite recipes. Carob powder is generally considered safe for consumption. Pregnant women should avoid consuming large quantities of carob.
Origin: Germany
Quality: Organic
Characteristics: Gluten Free, Lactose Free, Vegan
Applications: Baking mixes, dietary supplements, cereals, smoothies, weight management.
Certifications: GR-BIO-10, DE-ÖKO-007, EcoVeg
Storage: Keep in a dark and cool place (5°C – 15°C).