Reply #9: No, your "more than 2" rule is correct. People don't understand the problem.

[HopeHoops]

The second example is a purchase of two items - apples, and a combined package of oranges and bananas.

Of course, putting a comma in where it doesn't belong can be just as bad: "My mother makes carrots, and peas in the same pot." (Say it out loud to get the humor).