Carob pod

The fruit of the carob tree (bot. Ceratonia siliqua) is known as a carob pod. The intact pod has a sweet, fruity and earthy aroma, reminiscent of cocoa, caramel or dried dates. However, when the pod is broken open, becomes damp or is stored in large quantities, it gives off a pungent, sour and slightly rancid odour, as it naturally contains isobutyric acid.
Carob pods are edible; they have a naturally sweet, fruity and slightly tart flavour. As the dried and ground pulp (known as carob) is very similar in taste to cocoa powder, it is often used as a caffeine-free and low-fat substitute for cocoa or chocolate.