Written by Rachel Orriss | Last updated July 2026
Herbalife PDM vs Formula 1: UK Routine Comparison
Formula 1 and Protein Drink Mix (PDM) are two different products that are often used together — but they do very different jobs. This guide explains what each one is, how they compare nutritionally, and when you actually need both.
Quick answer: Formula 1 (£24.96) is a nutritionally complete meal replacement — it replaces a meal. Protein Drink Mix (PDM) (£30.96) is a protein supplement — it boosts the protein content of a Formula 1 shake from ~19g to ~34g. You do not need PDM to use Formula 1. Most beginners should start with Formula 1 alone. All products are genuine Herbalife with fast UK delivery and no minimum order.
Formula 1 vs PDM — what each product actually does
| Product | What it is | Calories | Protein | Price | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Formula 1 (550g) | Meal replacement shake powder | ~210 kcal (with semi-skimmed milk) | ~19g | £24.96 | Replace one meal per day — typically breakfast |
| PDM (588g) | Protein supplement — add to Formula 1 | ~65 kcal (powder only, with water) | ~15g per scoop | £30.96 | Increase protein content of a Formula 1 shake |
| Formula 1 + PDM combined | High-protein meal replacement | ~285 kcal (with semi-skimmed milk) | ~34g | £55.92 | Post-exercise, muscle preservation, high-protein diet |
| Vegan PDM (560g) | Plant-based protein supplement | ~65 kcal (with water) | ~15g per scoop | £30.96 | Same as PDM but suitable for vegans |
The products side by side
Formula 1 Vanilla Cream 550g
£24.96
~21 servings · ~£1.19/serving · ~210 kcal · ~19g protein with semi-skimmed milk · meal replacement
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Protein Drink Mix (PDM) 588g
£30.96
~40 servings · ~£0.77/serving · ~15g protein per scoop · add to Formula 1 or use with water
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Vegan PDM 560g
£30.96
Plant-based · same protein content as standard PDM · suitable for vegans and dairy-free diets
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Formula 1 + PDM Bundle
£104.96
3 x Formula 1 tubs + 1 x PDM · ~34g protein per shake · best value if you use both regularly
Buy NowDo you actually need PDM?
Start with Formula 1 only if:
You are new to Herbalife. You are replacing one meal per day for weight management. You are not doing regular intense exercise. ~19g protein per shake is sufficient for your needs. Formula 1 alone at £24.96 is a complete, nutritionally balanced meal replacement.
Add PDM if:
You do regular weight training or intense exercise and need higher protein intake. You are replacing two meals per day and want to preserve muscle. You want ~34g protein per shake rather than ~19g. You are already using Formula 1 and want to increase the protein content without changing the flavour significantly.
PDM can also be used standalone mixed with water as a very low-calorie protein drink (~65 kcal, ~15g protein) — useful as a between-meal protein boost. See the full protein powder UK guide for context on how PDM compares to other protein options.
Why buy from Lose Weight Feel Great?
All products are genuine Herbalife with fast UK delivery and no minimum order. You do not need to join anything or commit to a subscription. We have over 4.96 out of 5 from verified UK customers. See the Herbalife UK price comparison for a full breakdown of every product and size.
Genuine Herbalife products with fast UK delivery. No minimum order.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Formula 1 and PDM?
Formula 1 is a nutritionally complete meal replacement shake providing approximately 210 calories and 19g protein per serving (with semi-skimmed milk). PDM is a protein supplement that you add to a Formula 1 shake to increase the protein content to approximately 34g. They are different products that serve different purposes.
Do I need PDM if I am using Formula 1?
Not necessarily. Formula 1 alone provides approximately 19g protein per serving, which is sufficient for most people replacing one meal per day. Add PDM if you do regular intense exercise, want higher protein intake, or are replacing two meals per day.
How much protein does Formula 1 + PDM give you?
Approximately 34g protein per serving when both are mixed with 250–300ml semi-skimmed milk. Formula 1 alone provides approximately 19g, and PDM adds approximately 15g.
What is Vegan PDM?
Vegan Protein Drink Mix (560g, £30.96) is the plant-based version of PDM. It provides the same protein content as standard PDM but is suitable for vegans and those avoiding dairy. It is used in the same way — added to a Formula 1 shake or mixed with water.
Can PDM be used without Formula 1?
Yes — PDM can be mixed with water alone as a low-calorie protein drink providing approximately 65 calories and 15g protein. It is useful as a between-meal protein boost without the calories of a full shake.
Are these genuine Herbalife products?
Yes — all products are genuine Herbalife, sourced directly. Fast UK delivery, no minimum order, no joining fee required.
