Swedish Gender Equality Minister Paulina Brandberg, who is allergic to bananas, has mandated her officials to maintain fruit-free meeting rooms.
Details of Brandberg’s directive surfaced through emails leaked by the Swedish tabloid Expressen. One email sent to the Norwegian Judicial Agency before a VIP lunch stated, “[Paulina Brandberg] has a strong allergy to bananas, and it would be appreciated if no bananas are present in the areas where she will be.”
Another message to the County Administrative Board explicitly required, “No bananas are allowed on the premises.”
Brandberg emphasized the severity of her condition to Expressen, mentioning she seeks professional help to manage her allergy.
Despite its rarity, bananaphobia can significantly impact health, potentially causing anxiety, nausea, and fatigue at the sight or smell of bananas.
