The Express was told in 2017, by "a spokesperson for the Wimbledon Museum", that "there are 'very few facts' about the pineapple's origin, but [the spokesperson believed that] it dates back to the fruit's use as a symbol of 'honour, welcoming and celebration'."
"In the 17th century" (continued the anonymous spokesperson), "pineapples were impossible to grow in the UK and they had to be imported, so being presented with one at a feast was seen as a great compliment. You might have seen pineapples being used on gateposts of stately homes as you travel around the UK. It's because of their rarity."
The Sun reported much the same in 2018, using pretty much exactly the same words. You might almost think they'd copied it from the Express ...
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