Colin Goulding, aged 30, reportedly cried in the dock as the charge of arson with intent to endanger life was read out a Caerphilly Magistrates Court on Saturday (September 22).
Prosecutor Jean Munton told the court that Goulding was working in the factory alongside his parents at the time of the incident on September 20.
More than 60 fire-fighters and 20 fire engines tackled the blaze for more than 12 hours on the Pen Y Fan Industrial Estate, Croespenmaen, Crumlin.
Refused bail
Goulding was refused bail and will remained in custody until his next hearing at Newport Crown Court on Thursday.
Paul Allen, chief executive of Tayto Group, which owns the Real Crisps brand, said the company would be considering “all options” to try to protect the 115 jobs at the plant, including providing jobs for workers at the group’s other factories.
He added that the blaze had affected not only employees, but also had implications for customers, suppliers and growers.
