Kansas City, Missouri, October 6, 2025
Betty Rae’s
Betty Rae’s is a locally established ice cream shop renowned for its commitment to natural ingredients and unique flavors. With roots in Kansas City, the company emphasizes transparency in food labeling and has adopted a clean ingredient approach ahead of upcoming FDA regulations. As part of its growth strategy, Betty Rae’s is expanding through franchising, with new locations planned in cities like St. Louis, Wichita, and Nashville. The franchise model requires significant investment, including a net worth of $500,000 and startup costs between $272,000 to $545,000. The brand is dedicated to creating nostalgic, high-quality ice cream experiences that resonate emotionally with consumers, reinforcing its position as a leader in the natural ice cream movement.
News Summary
In Kansas City, local ice cream shops Fairway Creamery and Betty Rae’s are setting a trend by eliminating artificial dyes in their products, well ahead of an FDA ban scheduled for 2026. This movement reflects a broader industry shift, with 90% of national ice cream companies also planning to phase out artificial dyes by 2028. The community appreciates the commitment to transparency and health, which has spurred interest in unique flavors and nostalgic ice cream experiences. Betty Rae’s is also expanding by franchising to further promote its health-conscious mission.
Kansas City is seeing a shift in the ice cream industry as two local shops, Fairway Creamery and Betty Rae’s, take the lead in eliminating artificial dyes in their products ahead of a planned FDA ban set for the end of 2026. Fairway Creamery focuses on using clean, natural ingredients, which although more expensive, are deemed vital for health. Betty Rae’s, known for its unique flavors, emphasizes transparency in food labeling and has committed to using only natural ingredients in their ice creams.
This trend is not limited to local shops. National ice cream companies are also pivoting away from synthetic dyes, with reports indicating that 90% of these companies plan to eliminate artificial dyes by 2028. Many customers express appreciation for the transparency these local businesses provide regarding their food contents, which the owners believe fosters trust and safety among their clientele.
Though many current artificial dyes are considered safe when consumed in moderation, registered dietitian Cara Harbstreet highlights the importance of these ingredients being used thoughtfully. There’s a growing awareness among consumers about the potential health impacts of artificial substances. As preferences shift toward natural options, the appeal of nostalgic childhood memories associated with classic ice cream treats is also driving interest. Despite the increasing availability of grocery store alternatives, the cultural significance of ice cream trucks remains present, particularly as they conjure fond memories of childhood moments spent enjoying treats like the Bomb Pop, first created in Kansas City during the Cold War.
Betty Rae’s is also embarking on expansion plans through franchising. It is set to open new locations in various cities, including St. Louis, Wichita, and Nashville. Prospective franchise owners are required to have a net worth of $500,000, including $250,000 in liquid capital, alongside a passion for ice cream. Start-up costs for opening a new franchise range from $272,000 to $545,000, along with additional fees for royalties and branding. Their first franchise location opened recently in Omaha, Nebraska, with plans for more in the pipeline.
Additionally, Clementine’s Ice Cream has recently launched its first Kansas City metro location. Known for its artisanal approach and unique flavors, this shop further reinforces the local commitment to avoiding artificial ingredients in ice cream products. The design of the new Clementine’s location features a vintage ice cream parlor aesthetic and is anticipated to include boozy ice cream flavors pending liquor law approvals in Kansas.
The popularity of local ice cream shops continues to be fueled by sensory memories linked to childhood experiences, with nostalgia playing a significant role in consumer choices. Beyond just the quality of the ice cream itself, it is the emotional connections people have with these treats that is helping to drive the resurgence of interest in ice cream shops and trucks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Kansas City ice cream shops doing to eliminate artificial dyes?
Two Kansas City ice cream shops, Fairway Creamery and Betty Rae’s, are using natural ingredients instead of artificial dyes, ahead of the FDA’s plan to eliminate synthetic dyes in American foods by the end of 2026.
What is the significance of using natural ingredients?
Fairway Creamery owner Ali Shirazi emphasizes the importance of using clean dyes, and admits that natural ingredients are more expensive but vital for health.
What are national ice cream companies doing in relation to artificial dyes?
National ice cream companies are also transitioning away from artificial dyes, with 90% pledging to do so by 2028.
What are the requirements for opening a Betty Rae’s franchise?
Franchise owners need a net worth of $500,000, including $250,000 in liquid capital, and must have a passion for ice cream.
What is the cost range for opening a Betty Rae’s franchise?
Start-up costs for opening a Betty Rae’s franchise range from $272,000 to $545,000, with additional fees for royalties and branding.
Key Features of Kansas City Ice Cream Shops’ Transition to Natural Ingredients
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Local Shops | Fairway Creamery, Betty Rae’s |
| FDA Ban on Artificial Dyes | End of 2026 |
| Industry Transition | 90% of national companies by 2028 |
| Franchising Plans | Expansion in St. Louis, Wichita, Nashville |
| Franchise Requirements | Net worth $500,000, $250,000 liquid capital |
| Start-up Costs | $272,000 to $545,000 |
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Additional Resources
- KSHB News: Artificial Dyes in Kansas City Ice Cream
- Wikipedia: Ice Cream
- Lawrence Times: Betty Rae’s Ice Cream in Lawrence
- Google Search: Artificial Dyes in Food
- Startland News: Betty Rae’s Ice Cream Franchise
- Google Scholar: Impact of Artificial Dyes on Health
- Johnson County Post: Betty Rae’s Shawnee Location
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Food Ingredients
- Fox 4 KC: Betty Rae’s New Location in Shawnee
- Google News: Local Ice Cream Shops Kansas City
Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.
