I understand they are trying to avoid the risk of potentially introducing foreign flora/fauna into the country, but the airline really should've announced to passengers before deplaning that they can't take the in-flight food with them.

So if eating the apple whilst still on the plane makes it legal - does it fall under that same description/distinction if I shove it up my ass instead? Does the law cite this particular case?

Asking for a friend.
Unrelated, if anyone knows a lawyer specialised in butt apples, pls let me know. Like asap.