Oh I like the idea of +1 to one stat modifier, although maybe just do the saving throw. I wouldn't expect too robust of a crafting system, given how it was in DOS2. I think meals could last 10-30 rounds be like +1 to strength and constitution saving throws, or +1 to intelligence and wisdom. While more raw ingredients like a potato would just be +1 strength and for 2 rounds.
The game won't be like dnd campaigns especially when it comes to loot. So many rpgs and even other dnd games are like that where you can just loot all the containers and strip your fallen enemies down when you normally wouldn't do that in dnd. There's people complaining about too many empty containers, not enough loot, and then other people complaining too many scrolls and potions. So having some food that is a little useful is an okay concession. Even though I play as a loot goblin with stacks of cheese, apples, and all kinds of other junk, I wouldn't mind toning down the amount of loot the game throws at you. I don't think we'd miss food giving hp either if Larian tones down encounters as well with their hp bloat, aoe attacks, etc.
