I think the other thing to remember is they don't know what food is, they don't know that food will take away hunger etc - they just want to do what they see others doing - so will probably be just as happy with something that looks food like to chew on.
I think this is a great point and a great idea. Do you have any play food in the house that he could play with while you eat? It would possibly also be good for his motor skills and hand eye co-ordination for when he starts on real food