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Givaudan factory explosion kills two workers

An explosion at a Givaudan Sense Colour factory in Kentucky, US on Tuesday killed two employees and left eleven people injured.

Swiss-headquartered Givaudan confirmed that two of its team members lost their lives at its Sense Colour factory in Louisville, Kentucky, which manufactures food and drink colours, following an explosion at the facility on Tuesday 12 November. Eleven other employees suffered injuries and were taken to hospital for treatment. 

Givaudan issued a statement on 15 November saying that it was profoundly saddened by the accident and that a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the explosion was underway.

At the time of publication of this article, no further details regarding the cause of the blast were known.

“Our hearts and grief are with the families, friends, and loved ones of those who lost their lives and others affected,” said Givaudan.

“City leaders confirmed there is no ongoing threat to individuals in the immediate vicinity or the surrounding community. We are aware of reports indicating damage to some homes and buildings near the factory, and we are working closely with first responders to provide support to those impacted,” the company added.

The mayor of Louisville, Craig Greenburg, requested that Givaudan provide a phone number and email address for any residents who had questions following the explosion. Louisville council also invited people with damaged property to contact Givaudan directly.

Givaudan said it was cooperating fully with first responders and supporting agencies to understand what happened, adding that it was in close contact with those impacted and was providing them with the necessary support and more information as it became available.

A fatal explosion already happened at the food colouring factory in 2003. Then owned by D.D. Williamson & Company – the site was acquired by Givaudan in 2021, which changed its name to Givaudan Sense Colour –, the 2003 explosion killed one employee.