The parents of a man who died after eating a pizza ordered through Deliveroo say they want the “complete truth” about what happened to their son.
James Atkinson died in July 2020 after ordering pizza for home from the Dadyal restaurant in Newcastle through the Deliveroo app, his parents say.
The 23-year-old Leeds man, who had a known peanut allergy, is thought to have eaten a slice. His family was told that he may have suffered a severe allergic reaction.
His death is due to be investigated on Tuesday before being investigated by the Coroners’ Court in Newcastle.
Mr Atkinson’s parents, Stewart and Jill, said their son was “conscientious” in checking the ingredients, as they called for the “complete truth” about the circumstances leading to his death.
They called for clearer display of allergens to prevent such an incident from happening to someone else.
Mr Atkinson told The Sunday Times: “We would like to see a simple system that offers a check box before placing an order – do you have allergies, yes or no?
“If you check yes, he instructs you to contact the restaurant by phone.
“Allergy information is always hidden. It has to be up front.”
Ms Atkinson added: “What everyone needs is a clear, complete list of ingredients for each item on the home menu and a sticker on the home box that says the allergens it contains.
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“We’ll never know if that would save James, but it could have happened … we just don’t want it to happen to another family.”
The restaurant was shut down by Deliveroo after his death, but remained on other food platforms.
Environmental officials and police confirmed they could trade again later that month.
It is reported that the owner of the restaurant said in 2020 that the order was made online through Deliveroo and the website contains “very clear” information about allergens and food hygiene.
At the time, there was a “cross-contamination notice” for peanuts in the Dadyal restaurant notes section, Deliveroo said.
Mr. Atkinson moved to study computer science at the University of Newcastle and after graduation remained in the city, where he lived with friends.
His family describes him as “a bright and cheerful character who lives life to the fullest”, with a passion for the sport, which includes completing a triathlon.
Delivero said: “This is a tragedy and our thoughts are with the family and friends of the young man who died so sadly.
“Deliveroo has contacted the police, who have confirmed that the company has acted correctly throughout and continues to comply fully with this investigation.
“The company will fully co-operate in the investigator’s investigation and will share all the information requested by the medical examiner.
“We are committed to doing our utmost to support this investigation and our hearts are with everyone involved.”
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