Hey seaweeddol,
We've added a new update with a ton of changes and improvements. There are now much better indicators for what is happening with your freshwater meter. We've implemented item stacking is well to help with the inventory issue, and we've also updated the dropping mechanic such that you can drop items anywhere when just your inventory is open (with E), but the item will de-spawn in 5 seconds if it's not picked up again.
Please try out the game with all the new updates! https://meybax.itch.io/omakase/devlog/718244/update-010-released