Food heals? I ate some after a combat once and noticed nothing. Does it only work mi combat? Can't even say how much fruit and meat I've tossed out, sold off, and ignored in chests? And all the cooking utensils: pots and all that stuff?
Sometimes does nothing, it's bugged. At least by right clicking in inventory and picking "consume" (or something like that). Sometimes have to try 2 times, but I keep log open and I keep trying until is noted there. Same with heal potions.
Edit: Of course be on the character that needs it, and has to be your turn if it's during fight and have action/bonus action points. Doesn't matter if it's in your inventory or on other character, every item is shared.