Labour minister’s banana phobia: Staff advised against keeping bananas at home

STOCKHOLM: Paulina Brandberg, Sweden's Minister of Labour, has issued a unique directive to her staff, instructing them to avoid keeping bananas at home or consuming them before meetings. The instructions, communicated via email, were reported by the Swedish newspaper ‘Expressen’.

Brandberg's aversion to bananas stems from a condition known as bananaphobia, an unusual and rare fear triggered by the sight or smell of bananas. This phobia can cause severe symptoms, including anxiety and nausea. The email reportedly emphasized that bananas should not be present, even in personal rooms and staff were advised against eating bananas before meeting with the minister.

The Swedish Prime Minister later addressed the situation, explaining that the directive is related to Brandberg's phobia and ensuring her well-being.

Brandberg's condition has been public knowledge since 2020, when she disclosed her bananaphobia in a post on X. At the time, Teresa Carvalho, an MP and Social Democratic spokesperson, also revealed that she shares the same fear, publicly expressing her solidarity with Brandberg.

Experts note that bananaphobia often begins in childhood but is not classified as a disease. With professional help, the condition can be managed.