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Visitors to Italy's stunning Lake Como can now take home a truly unique souvenir canned fresh air. Local company Italy Comunica has launched 400ml cans of "100% authentic" Lake Como air, priced at €9.90 (about $11), offering tourists a novel way to preserve their memories of this scenic destination. The company uses specialized equipment to capture the lake's pristine air. Their high-tech machines collect air at a rate of 21 bottles per minute, transferring it directly into sealed cans to maintain purity. Unlike processed air products, this air remains unfiltered to preserve its natural qualities. These special cans aren't available for online purchase. The company sells them exclusively in local Lake Como stores, encouraging tourists to visit the area personally. This strategy helps support local tourism while ensuring the product's authenticity.
Health experts have weighed in on the concept of bottled air. While Lake Como's natural air might offer benefits like stress reduction and easier breathing, they note there's no scientific evidence supporting health advantages from canned air. Some environmental concerns exist about the manufacturing and shipping processes, though the area's natural air quality remains excellent, particularly for those with respiratory issues. The product has gained significant attention worldwide, especially in regions struggling with air pollution. In China, similar products have become popular as symbolic purchases rather than practical items, representing a connection to cleaner environments. Public opinion about the canned air remains divided. While some tourists embrace it as an innovative collector's item, others view it as a concerning sign of environmental problems. Critics question the ethics of commodifying air, which is typically free and abundant. The debate highlights broader concerns about environmental preservation.