Kona Ice of Owensboro is gearing up for the 2025 season with a sweet new lineup, including an expanded selection of dye-free flavors and fun new products, according to owner Melissa Edmonds.
Edmonds and her family purchased the franchise from its Evansville-based owners in 2021, driven by a passion for Kona Ice’s mission to give back to local communities. But it was a personal experience that spurred the latest updates to their offerings.
“In 2022, we had twin grandbabies, and when our granddaughter got old enough to start eating other foods, we found out she had a dye allergy,” Edmonds said. “That really brought it to the forefront of our minds, thinking about all the families who either by choice or necessity need to avoid dyes.”
Although Kona Ice has never used Red 3, a synthetic dye that’s been in the spotlight for potential health concerns, Edmonds said the company has been proactive in providing more dye-free options. Starting in 2023, each truck carried at least three dye-free and three sugar-free flavors. But this year, Kona Ice rolled out additional flavors, bringing the total to 10 dye-free options.
“Now, we can offer a full dye-free Flavorwave, which we couldn’t accomplish before because we didn’t have enough flavors,” Edmonds said. “For our school visits, we’re giving them the option to book a truck that’s completely dye-free if they choose.”
The dye-free flavors are currently clear, but Edmonds said Kona Ice is exploring ways to eventually eliminate dyes altogether without sacrificing the vibrant colors the brand is known for. Surprisingly, the clear treats have become a hit with kids.
“They think it’s magical,” she said. “It doesn’t look like it has anything on it, but it tastes just like a Kona.”
The clear, dye-free options also offer practical benefits, especially at venues like football stadiums.
In addition to the expanded flavor lineup, Kona Ice is introducing candy spoons to replace the popular color-changing ones, along with a new sour apple candy topping for those who want to kick their Kona up a notch.
Edmonds said the trucks also offer customizable options, including combinations of dye-free and sugar-free flavors.
“We make our own flavors locally, so we can adjust to what people need. A lot of folks don’t realize that,” she said.
Kona Ice’s mission goes beyond offering refreshing treats. The company operates on a give-back model, with a portion of sales from community events like soccer games and school fundraisers returning to local organizations.
“If you see our trucks at a field or around town, chances are part of those sales are going right back to support that group,” Edmonds said.
To book a Kona Ice truck or learn more about their offerings, visit kona-ice.com.
