The Truth Behind Stamp Glue Calories
For decades, a persistent myth has circulated regarding the calorie count in stamp adhesives. The reality is that while postage stamp glue does contain a small amount of calories, it is so minuscule that it has no nutritional impact. An average United States postage stamp, for instance, contains approximately one-tenth of a calorie per lick. This is such a trivial amount that it is effectively zero from a dietary standpoint. Your body expends more energy in the act of licking than it receives from the glue.
The calorie content can, however, vary by country and type of stamp. In contrast to US stamps, some reports have indicated that British stamps historically contained around 5.9 calories per lick, with larger commemorative stamps containing up to 14.5 calories. This disparity is due to differences in the chemical composition of the adhesives used. Regardless of the specific number, the amount is never large enough to be considered a food source or to impact weight loss or gain in any meaningful way.
What Are Lickable Stamp Adhesives Made Of?
The adhesive on the back of traditional, water-activated stamps is typically made from non-toxic, carbohydrate-based substances. The most common of these are dextrin or gum arabic.
- Dextrin: A carbohydrate-based substance derived from starch, often sourced from potatoes, corn, or tapioca. When mixed with water, it becomes sticky. Dextrin is also used as a thickening agent in certain foods.
- Gum Arabic: A natural, edible substance harvested from the hardened sap of acacia trees. It has been used for centuries in various applications, including as a food additive and for art supplies. The FDA has confirmed its safety for consumer use in applications like stamp glue.
Some manufacturers have also used polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and polyvinyl acetate in their stamp formulations. Notably, the glue used on most lickable envelopes and stamps is non-toxic, vegan, and gluten-free, with no animal products involved. Some stamp adhesives, such as those used in Israel, are even kosher certified.
Comparing Water-Activated vs. Self-Adhesive Stamps
The composition and nature of stamp adhesive have changed over time. The table below compares the two primary types of postage stamps.
| Feature | Water-Activated (Traditional) | Self-Adhesive (Modern) |
|---|---|---|
| Activation Method | Licking or moistening with water. | Peeling a backing paper to expose adhesive. |
| Adhesive Type | Carbohydrate-based gums (dextrin, gum arabic). | Pressure-sensitive, polymer-based adhesives. |
| Calorie Content | Trace amounts, nutritionally insignificant. | Potentially trace amounts, but not meant for licking. |
| Ingredients | Natural, plant-based gums, often vegan. | Synthetic polymer blends, formulated for permanent sticking. |
| Safety | Non-toxic for incidental contact and ingestion. | Non-toxic, but ingestion is not recommended. |
| Ease of Use | Requires a moisture source, can be messier. | Cleaner, faster application, more convenient. |
Dispelling Common Health Concerns
The safety of licking stamps is a common question, and fortunately, the consensus is that it is harmless in normal, incidental amounts. Nutritionist Stephanie Di Figlia-Peck has stressed that the caloric consumption is “insignificant,” even if a large number of invitations or stamps were licked at once. Concerns about toxicity from stamp glue are largely unfounded, as most manufacturers use safe, food-grade ingredients. The primary purpose of using non-toxic substances is for the safety of postal workers who handle large volumes of mail.
One persistent myth is that stamp glue contains harmful allergens like gluten. As the ingredients are typically starch-based (like corn or potato) or tree sap derivatives, they are naturally gluten-free. For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities, licking a stamp poses no risk. For individuals who still prefer to avoid the adhesive, a damp sponge or moistening stick can be used instead of the tongue.
A Historical Note on Postal Adhesives
Postage stamps were first introduced in the mid-19th century, and the original adhesive was designed to be safe for human contact. This use of edible, carbohydrate-based glues has a long history. It was a practical and cost-effective solution that has evolved over time. While the rise of self-adhesive stamps has made the practice of licking stamps far less common, the interesting facts about their composition and calorie count continue to be a source of curiosity. So next time you have a traditional stamp, you can be confident that your licking won't derail your diet.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Stamp Calories
So, does licking a stamp have calories? Yes, technically, but the amount is so small it's not worth counting. The glues used are overwhelmingly non-toxic, gluten-free, and vegan, made from natural substances like dextrin or gum arabic. The health implications of licking a stamp are virtually nonexistent, and the practice is safe for all. For those counting every calorie, rest assured that this is one aspect of your diet you don't need to worry about. For a fascinating look into the history of adhesive compositions, The Postal Museum provides great insights on postal history and conservation.
