Just for fun. (IF 5 months, SW in 'normal' BMI, 0lb weight change, but clothes fit looser, increased exercise capacity, better lab results)
What doesn't count for me? Accepting a sample of food from someone cooking and seeking feedback; fruit popsicle offered from running group member post 5k or 10k run; a Costco sample while shopping/walking; backyard gardening - plucking a ripe cherry tomato or two while conversing with a neighbour; prepping a healthy snack for a kid and eating the bit they don't want (apple close to the core), 'found' food like a stray chocolate-covered nut (recent and not of unknown consumption period). I think I also won't count any food taken while actively running or about to run, like a piece of hard candy to prevent coughing, a small banana before a long run.
I guess in other words, social grazing while occupied in another activity, often while up and about.
What does count: Joining the family in an evening snack; eating kid leftovers after being done own meal, road trip snacks outside the window, free office baked goods.
Answer
Heya, I count all of those as eating, I doubt our bodies think “hey this is not an official meal, so I will not break the fast”. But if it works for ya, then keep doing it, but as others may say, that ain’t IF.