I think Mamma Mia might be right. Do you think mom/dad jump at his every wimper, as an attempt to curb any kind of behaviour issues? He sounds like a sweet kid, but I can see how this would be irritating. In fact, I am dealing with it too. Last week, I made apple pie for snack (who doesn't like warm apple pie? C'mon!!) and my new p/t boy cried and hid under the table.
I just try to take a no nonsense approach. I use a completely neutral voice to say whatever it is I need to say, and otherwise give it no attention. The little guy that I have uses this to "get out" of any trouble he might be in.
On the other hand, as I type I am wondering if his parents yell at him too much? Maybe he just feels like he is always in trouble at home?
I would mention it to mom, as they may have some coping skills or techniques you can use.