The seeds may be roasted and ground and used in place of coffee. Oil can also be derived from the seed. The American Indian used the fruit in gruel, cornbread and puddings and with honey locust pods, made an alcoholic beverage. Vinegar could also be made with this fruit. The fruit can provide a self feeding fodder crop for livestock.
All livestock enjoy the ripe fruit as they fall from the tree.
They are also popular with wildlife. Unripe fruit, however is toxic, particularly to horses. Spiced fruit bread is popular. Any astringency remaining in the fruit whilst cooking can be removed by adding a half teaspoon of baking soda for each cup of pulp. Cast iron utensils should not be used as the pulp will turn black.