Hunger is one of the primary game concepts as it is the measurement which determines whether or not the character is starving (which is, of course, the game's very namesake). A full stomach for most characters is measured at 150, except for Wolfgang's which is 300, WX-78's which is initially 100 and can be upgraded to 200, and Wes' which is 113. Hunger drains at 9.375 per minute (11.71875 as Wes, 14.0625 when normal and 28.125 when mighty as Wolfgang) or 75 points per one game day (93.75 as Wes, 112.5 when normal and 225 when mighty as Wolfgang). Hunger drain can also be slowed to 60% normal loss rate by equipping a Belt of Hunger, and slowed to 75% normal loss rate by the Hibearnation Vest.
When Hunger meter reaches zero, Health will begin to drain at 1.25 points per second (37.5 per one game hour) until something is eaten or the character dies. Eating most food will increase the Hunger meter. The amount restored depends on the food eaten and cooked food typically restores more than raw food. Some food also has the potential to decrease hunger, sanity, or health. Also, when going to sleep in a Straw Roll, Fur Roll or a Tent, the character takes an immediate hunger penalty; if Hunger was reduced to 0 by that, the character will lose health in their sleep.