I have been working on a 1.12.2 version of this mod (1.12.2 EatingAnimation). If anyone wants to help, the project is open.

Things that have been done:
-Made all eating textures for 1.12.2
-Set to java 8 instead of java 17.

Things that need to be done:
-Fully convert compilation from fabric 1.19.4 to forge 1.12.2.
-Convert the model names and json file contents to point to the 1.12.2 eating textures.
-needs to be tested on the apple and baked potato before continuing.