Carob as an Agrifood Chain Product of Cultural, Agricultural and Economic Importance in the Mediterranean Region

Abstract

The carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua L.) is a typical Mediterranean species with over a 4000-year history. From ancient Egyptians to Cretans, carob products have been used as emergency food in the absence of basic goods. In the previous few decades, the global agricultural economy has replaced traditional crops with more profitable ones, which has led to soil degradation and a greater requirement for inputs. The rediscovery and use of plants that have best adapted to their growing territory is of crucial importance to preserve biodiversity and promote sustainable agricultural practices in a bioeconomy perspective. In recent years, carob’s commercial value has increased due to its use as a raw material in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and biofuel industries. This is expected to give a new impetus to the crop. Since the Mediterranean basin is the place of the origin of the carob tree, its cultivation will contribute to the sustainability of the Mediterranean agro-ecosystems and increase the socio-economic status of the local population.JEL Codes: Q570