The most useful product information is on the current label for the exact item you plan to buy. A familiar brand name or a similar-looking tub does not mean that two products have the same ingredients or directions.

Start with the product identity

Match the product name, flavour, pack size and UK market information. Formula 1 550 g, a larger Formula 1 tub and Protein Drink Mix are separate products. If the label you are reading does not match your basket, ask for the correct one before you order.

Check the ingredients and allergens

Read the complete ingredient list and allergen information, including any precautionary statements. Check every flavour separately. The ingredients in a liquid or topping you add also matter: a shake prepared with milk has a different ingredient profile from the dry powder.

If you have an allergy or a specific dietary requirement, do not rely on a product photograph, an old review or a broad category description. Ask for current information and appropriate professional advice if suitability is unclear. The Food Standards Agency’s allergen guidance explains why clear allergen information matters.

Separate powder from the prepared drink

A nutrition table may show values per 100 g, per serving or for a drink made using a specified preparation. These are different measurements. Compare like with like: the same serving basis and the same preparation. Do not compare a dry-powder value for one product with a prepared-drink value for another.

Read the preparation directions

Look for the measured quantity, required liquid and volume. For current UK Formula 1 550 g flavours, follow the exact label’s directions for 26 g with 250 ml semi-skimmed milk (1.5% fat) or fortified soy beverage. Other products and combined preparations have their own directions.

Notice warnings and storage instructions

Check any age restrictions, caffeine statements, usage limits, storage directions and best-before information that apply to your chosen product. Keep the original container and label after opening so this information remains available.

Find the official labels

Our Formula 1 550 g product page links to the official UK labels for the available flavours. As an example, see Formula 1 Vanilla Cream. For a comparison, see the Protein Drink Mix label.

Missing a label or unsure which version applies? Contact Beau before ordering. You can also use our first-order checklist.

By Beau Asprey, Independent Herbalife Member. This guide helps you locate and compare product information; it does not determine individual suitability.