Is It Wise to Lick the Back of a Postage Stamp?
When it comes to the act of licking the back of a postage stamp, there are a few practical and interesting aspects to consider. The wisdom of participating in this activity is often influenced by the type of stamp in question, the purpose behind the licking, and the potential health implications. Letrsquo;s dive into the details of the glue on the back of postage stamps and how it affects our daily lives and habits.
Understanding the Adhesive
Postage stamps have evolved significantly over the years, with self-adhesive stamps becoming the norm. These stamps feature a sticky back that eliminates the need for licking, making the process both convenient and hygienic. However, for those familiar with the now obsolete licking method, itrsquo;s fascinating to know what the glue is really made of.
The gums used in stamp adhesives are derived from two primary components: polyvinyl alcohol and dextrin. According to the British Royal Mail, the gum on British stamps is composed of polyvinyl alcohol and dextrin. This blend can also include starch derived from potatoes. For ready-stamped stationery items, the gum may be a mix of polyvinyl acetate and dextrin, with aerogrammes (air mail stamps) using a blend of polyvinyl acetate and polyvinyl alcohol.
The Health Aspect: Calories in Postage Stamps
There are some interesting implications when it comes to the calories contained in licking stamps. For instance, the British Royal Mail has provided specific caloric values for standard and commemorative stamps. A single standard postage stamp contains 5.9 calories, while special or commemorative stamps can carry as much as 14.5 calories.
For individuals who track their calorie intake, such as those on Weight Watchers (now WW) programs, this information could be relevant. Licking enough of these stamps could potentially use up some of your daily calorie allowance. Itrsquo;s important to note that these values are based on the adhesive content and are not reflective of the entire stamp, including the paper and possibly any metallic coatings or security features.
Considerations for Religious and Vegetarian Beliefs
Licking stamps is not only a matter of taste and calorie intake but also a matter of respect and practice for certain religious and cultural groups. The British Royal Mail ensures that the gum used is vegetable-based, containing no animal products. This is crucial for adherents of religious beliefs that prohibit the consumption or handling of non-vegetarian substances.
For vegetarians, ensuring that the glue does not contain any animal-derived ingredients is important. The British Royal Mailrsquo;s use of a blend of polyvinyl alcohol and dextrin, both of which are plant-derived, addresses this concern and helps maintain a practice of vegetarianism without compromising the functionality of the stamps.
Practical and Moral Outcomes
When considering whether it is wise to lick the back of a postage stamp, practicality and morality come into play. In terms of practicality, self-adhesive stamps are much more user-friendly and hygienic. They eliminate the need for manual licking, which can be messy and unsanitary.
From a moral standpoint, respecting the preferences and beliefs of others is essential. By using self-adhesive stamps, one avoids offending those who might find licking stamps offensive, whether due to religious, cultural, or personal reasons. This approach promotes a more harmonious and considerate mailing environment.
Conclusion
While licking the back of a postage stamp may seem like a harmless habit, it comes with practical, health, and moral considerations. The glue used in stamp adhesives is primarily plant-based, making it suitable for a wide range of people. The caloric content of licking stamps is negligible for most dietary tracking purposes. Ultimately, using self-adhesive stamps is the most hygienic and respectful choice.