How to Make the Perfect Herbalife Formula 1 Shake UK
Formula 1 is straightforward to make — but the liquid you use, the add-ins you choose, and the flavour you pick all affect how good it tastes and how well it works. This guide covers everything from the basic method to advanced combinations.
Quick answer: the standard method is 2 scoops of Formula 1 blended or shaken with 250ml of semi-skimmed milk. This gives approximately 220–250 kcal, 18–20g of protein, and 21 vitamins and minerals. Use a blender for a smoother texture; a shaker bottle works fine for a quick result. Start with one flavour and use it consistently before experimenting.
Formula 1 shakes at member prices
The basic method
Formula 1 is designed to be simple. The standard serving is 2 scoops (approximately 26g) mixed with 250ml of liquid. The most common liquid is semi-skimmed cow’s milk, which adds protein, calcium, and a creamier texture. You can use any milk — whole, skimmed, oat, almond, or soy — depending on your dietary preference and calorie target.
A shaker bottle gives a quick, lump-free result in about 30 seconds. A blender gives a smoother, thicker texture and is better if you are adding frozen fruit or ice. Both work — the method you will actually use consistently is the right one.
The shake is ready to drink immediately. It does not need to be refrigerated before mixing, but it should be consumed within a few hours of preparation if made in advance.
Choosing your liquid
| Liquid | Texture | Extra protein | Approx. extra calories | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-skimmed milk (250ml) | Creamy | ~9g | ~120 kcal | Most people — best balance of taste and nutrition |
| Whole milk (250ml) | Richer | ~9g | ~160 kcal | Higher calorie needs, post-workout |
| Skimmed milk (250ml) | Lighter | ~9g | ~85 kcal | Lower calorie target |
| Oat milk (250ml) | Slightly sweet | ~1–2g | ~110–130 kcal | Dairy-free, vegan option |
| Almond milk (250ml) | Light, thin | ~1g | ~30–50 kcal | Very low calorie target |
| Water | Thin | 0g | 0 kcal | Strict calorie control only — affects taste significantly |
Adding Protein Drink Mix
Protein Drink Mix (PDM) is an unflavoured protein powder designed to be added to Formula 1 shakes. One serving (approximately 25g) adds around 15g of additional protein, taking the total protein content of the shake to approximately 33–35g with semi-skimmed milk.
PDM is worth adding if you have higher protein requirements — for example, if you are active, building muscle, or following a higher-protein diet. It does not significantly change the taste or texture of the shake. It is not necessary for most people using Formula 1 as a standard meal replacement.
See the full PDM guide for serving sizes, pricing, and when it makes sense to add it.
Flavour combinations that work
Vanilla Cream + frozen banana
- 2 scoops Vanilla Cream
- 250ml semi-skimmed milk
- 1 small frozen banana
- Blend until smooth
Thicker texture, naturally sweeter. Good for people who find the standard shake too thin.
Smooth Chocolate + peanut butter
- 2 scoops Smooth Chocolate
- 250ml semi-skimmed milk
- 1 tsp natural peanut butter
- Shake or blend
Richer, more filling. Adds healthy fats and a small amount of extra protein.
Vanilla Cream + instant coffee
- 2 scoops Vanilla Cream
- 250ml cold milk
- 1 tsp instant coffee dissolved in 1 tbsp hot water, cooled
- Shake well
A simple iced latte-style shake. Works well as a breakfast replacement for coffee drinkers.
Banana Cream + strawberries
- 2 scoops Banana Cream
- 250ml semi-skimmed milk
- 4–5 frozen strawberries
- Blend until smooth
Fruity and refreshing. Good for summer or as a post-exercise shake.
Which flavour to start with
Start with Vanilla Cream if…
You are unsure which flavour to choose, you want to add fruit or coffee, or you prefer a neutral base that works with almost any combination. Vanilla Cream is the most versatile Formula 1 flavour and the most popular in the UK.
Start with Smooth Chocolate if…
You already know you want a chocolate shake and plan to drink it on its own or with peanut butter. It is less versatile as a recipe base but more satisfying for people who specifically want a chocolate flavour every day.
Buy one box of your chosen flavour before ordering multiple tubs. Taste preference is personal — the flavour you will drink consistently is the right one, regardless of what anyone else recommends.
Why buy from Lose Weight Feel Great?
We offer member discount prices with the lowest cost per serving available in the UK. No hidden fees, no minimum order, no subscription commitments. Fast UK delivery on all orders.
- Member discount prices — no joining fee required
- Lowest cost per serving in the UK
- Genuine Herbalife products with full shelf life
- Verified customer reviews — 4.95 out of 5
- Fast UK delivery on every order
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
How do you make a Herbalife Formula 1 shake?
The standard method is 2 scoops of Formula 1 (approximately 26g) mixed with 250ml of semi-skimmed milk. Shake in a shaker bottle for 30 seconds or blend for a smoother texture. This gives approximately 220–250 kcal and 18–20g of protein per serving. Consume immediately or within a few hours of preparation.
What is the best liquid to use with Formula 1?
Semi-skimmed milk is the most popular choice — it adds protein, calcium, and a creamy texture. Oat milk or almond milk work well for dairy-free or vegan options. Water can be used for strict calorie control but significantly affects the taste. The liquid you choose affects both the calorie content and the texture of the shake.
Should I add Protein Drink Mix to my Formula 1 shake?
Only if you have higher protein requirements. PDM adds approximately 15g of protein per serving, taking the total to around 33–35g with semi-skimmed milk. For most people using Formula 1 as a standard meal replacement, the protein content without PDM is sufficient. See the PDM guide for more detail.
Which Formula 1 flavour is best for beginners?
Vanilla Cream is the safest starting point because it is the most versatile — it works on its own and as a base for fruit, coffee, or other additions. Smooth Chocolate is a good choice if you specifically want a chocolate shake. Buy one tub before committing to multiple boxes.
Can I make a Formula 1 shake without a blender?
Yes. A shaker bottle gives a lump-free result in about 30 seconds and is the most practical option for daily use. A blender gives a smoother, thicker texture and is better for recipes with frozen fruit or ice. Both methods work well — use whichever you will actually use consistently.
