Tragedy Strikes Violanta Biscuit Factory in Greece

A catastrophic explosion and subsequent fire at the Violanta biscuit factory near Trikala, Greece, resulted in the deaths of at least four workers and left one person unaccounted for. The incident occurred during the night shift on January 26, 2026, around 4:00 AM, when 13 employees were present at the facility. Eight workers managed to escape, while emergency crews battled the blaze that engulfed the factory for several hours.

Explosion and fire at cookie factory in Greece kills 4 workers, 1 missingExplosion at cookie factory in central Greece kills at least 4Greece: Cookie factory blast leaves 3 dead

The explosion, which was powerful enough to be heard across Trikala and surrounding villages, caused significant structural damage to the factory, including the collapse of parts of the roof and walls. Initial investigations suggest that the blast may have originated near the ovens, which are known to operate continuously. However, authorities have not confirmed the exact cause, with a gas leak being one of the leading theories under examination.

At Least Four Dead in Massive Explosion and Fire at Renowned Cookie Factory in Trikala, Greece

The fire brigade reported that four bodies, all identified as female workers, were recovered from the debris. Six additional individuals, including a firefighter, were hospitalized for smoke inhalation and respiratory issues, but none were in serious condition. The Health Minister, Adonis Georgiadis, confirmed that the injured were stable and receiving care at a local hospital.

Fire in Greek biscuit factory kills four

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed condolences to the families of the victims, stating, "Our thoughts today are with the families of the victims. A fire department team is already examining the causes of this tragedy so that we know exactly what happened and assign responsibility where it is due." The company, Violanta S.A., emphasized its commitment to supporting the affected employees and their families during this difficult time.

Fire Breaks Out at Cookie Factory in Greece Leaving 4 Dead, 1 Missing

Greece's largest labor union, the General Confederation of Greek Workers (GSEE), has called for a thorough investigation into the incident, highlighting the need for accountability in workplace safety. The union noted that the four deceased workers were women and demanded clarity on the circumstances leading to the explosion.

Fire in Greek biscuit factory kills four

While most sources report four confirmed fatalities, some discrepancies exist regarding the total number of casualties, with one source indicating that parts of a fifth body were recovered. Investigations are ongoing, and authorities have not ruled out any possibilities, including potential arson.

Tragedy at Violanta Biscuit Factory in Trikala: Death Toll Rises to Four, One Worker Still Missing

As investigations continue, emergency response teams remain on-site to extinguish remaining hotspots and clear debris. The Arson Crimes Division (DAEE) has been dispatched to determine the cause of the explosion, with a focus on ensuring workplace safety standards are upheld in the future.

At Least Four Dead in Massive Explosion and Fire at Renowned Cookie Factory in Trikala, Greece

• "Today, a serious incident occurred at our factory premises during the night shift, due to a cause that remains unknown at this time." — Violanta S.A.

Explosion and fire at cookie factory in Greece kills 4 workers, 1 missing

• "A fire department team is already examining the causes of this tragedy so that we know exactly what happened and assign responsibility where it is due." — Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis

Fire Breaks Out at Cookie Factory in Greece Leaving 4 Dead, 1 Missing

• "There is no hope of finding any of the missing workers alive, given the force of the explosion and the fire that followed." — Giorgos Katavoutas, Deputy Mayor for Civil Protection

Greece: Fire at Violanta food factory leaves at least four dead