Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
GENERAL
Getting enough high-quality protein in your daily diet is key to supporting overall health and well-being. Protein:
- Supports muscle and bone health, helping to build and maintain strength as you age.
- Promotes satiety, which can assist with healthy weight management by helping you feel fuller for longer.
- Contributes to healthy skin, hair, nails, and joints, and plays a vital role in tissue repair and everyday bodily functions.
- Helps regulate body composition by supporting lean muscle mass and metabolic efficiency.
- Reduces the risk of age-related decline and injury by maintaining structural strength and resilience.
For a deeper dive into how protein can benefit your health—and how to get the most out of it in your daily diet—contact us, and we’ll put you in touch with a dietician who can help guide you on your protein journey.
For most adults, a daily intake of 1.6 to 2.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight is considered optimal—particularly for maintaining or building muscle, supporting healthy aging, and managing body composition. This recommendation goes well beyond the minimum set by the U.S. Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), which suggests just 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight. However, the RDA reflects the minimum needed to prevent deficiency, not what’s ideal for optimal health and performance.
Experts in muscle-focused health, including Dr. Gabrielle Lyon and her peers, advocate for higher protein intake to support lean mass, metabolic health, satiety, and physical performance, especially in active individuals or those over 40.
The goal is not just to meet survival needs, but to thrive—preserving strength, mobility, and vitality as you age.
Keep in mind that individual protein requirements may vary based on your activity level, age, goals, and overall health. It’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare provider or dietitian for personalized guidance.
We recommend using Protein Factory as a protein supplement in your diet, at up to 2 servings per day. Protein Factory should complement a balanced diet to help you consume more protein with fewer calories.
The idea that high protein intake is harmful has not been clearly supported by scientific evidence. While concerns are often raised—frequently based on older or indirect studies—there is no definitive research showing that protein consumption within a reasonable range is dangerous for healthy individuals.
Some experts suggest that there may be an upper threshold (potentially around 400 grams per day), beyond which protein intake could place unnecessary strain on the kidneys or other systems. However, this level is far above what most people consume, and it remains theoretical.
For most people, consuming 1.6 to 2.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day (or even more for athletes or those with higher needs) is not only safe but potentially beneficial—especially for supporting muscle mass, metabolic health, and healthy aging.
For a deeper dive into how protein can benefit your health—and how to get the most out of it in your daily diet—contact us, and we’ll put you in touch with a dietician who can help guide you on your protein journey.
No. It’s for everyone! With the optimal blend of protein, minimal calories, and 0g of added sugar, Protein Factory helps anyone build strength, lose fat, and be the best version of themselves. With a PDCAAS score of around 0.9 and a base of high quality, bioavailable, complete protein with all essential amino acids present in the right amounts, Protein Factory’s protein system has been optimized to support muscle protein synthesis.
All of our Protein Factory products are proudly made in our very own, company owned, state-of-the-art facility in Cape Town, South Africa. Our facility is FSSC 22000 certified, and this is the strictest level of food safety certification available, globally. This ensures that every product we sell meets our rigorous criteria for taste, nutrition, and product safety.
In general, high protein products are not recommended in younger children (under the age of 13).
For active, sporty teens, with no underlying health conditions, however, the products may be safe and beneficial, especially if your teen needs a higher protein intake as a result of heavy physical activity.
We would always recommend checking with a health professional if you are unsure of anything or have any allergies or medical conditions. We cannot offer any medical advice.
Yes! Protein Factory products are ideal for athletes looking to increase their protein intake, and maximise performance and recovery.
PRODUCT
No – they can be stored in a cupboard or a fridge unopened, however, we would recommend consuming them chilled for the best gourmet experience!
Storing the products in a refrigerator also just assists in keeping freshness and texture maximised throughout the long 4-6 month shelf life from production date, that the products carry.
Yes, all products are certified Gluten Free. Protein Factory is produced in a factory that does handle Gluten (oats), but strict allergen control measures, and test protocols are in place to prevent any cross contamination.
No. All protein factory products contain Cow’s Milk as an allergen. Persons with a cows milk allergy should take note. The Cow’s Milk allergen is declared on all product packaging.
Protein Factory is produced in a factory that does handle Gluten (oats), but strict allergen control measures, and test protocols are in place to prevent any cross contamination.
These products are not designed to be used as a meal replacement but can be used as part of a calorie-controlled diet whatever your goal. True meal replacement products are higher in calories, and contain high levels of carbohydrates and fats. These high protein products are aimed at those already eating a balanced diet, but looking for a tasty and convenient way to increase their protein intake, while keeping calories low.
Since all the products are made with cows milk protein, they are not suitable for vegans who are avoiding all animal derived products.
That being said, the products may be suitable for lacto-vegetarians (fegetarians who drink milk).
These products are not designed to be used as a meal replacement but can be used as part of a calorie-controlled diet, whatever your goals might be (recovery, weight loss, or just looking for a guilt free snack).
Yes. All of the Protein Factory products also contain very low amounts of Lactose (5g or less per serving).
There are multiple published studies on this subject and all conclude that consuming below 6 grams of lactose in a serving produces zero, or only very minimal symptoms, even in those with diagnosed lactose intolerance.
So if you’re someone who can’t tolerate large amounts of plain milk, but you do ok with yoghurt, cream cheese etc, then you’ll almost certainly be ok with Protein Factory.
Start with half a serving, and see how you feel. If the lactose still bothers you, please contact us at: support@theproteinfactory.co and we’ll arrange a return and refund for you.
Short answer:
All Protein Factory products are shelf-stable, and can be stored at ambient room temperature for the duration of the marked shelf life printed on each pack (normally 6 months from production date). No refrigeration necessary!
That being said, if you plan to hang onto your Protein Factory products for a longer period of time (though, we’re pretty sure you’ll find they disappear real quick!), then keeping them in the fridge just helps keep the freshness and mouthfeel at absolute peak levels for the full shelf life, though its totally not necessary to do if you don’t have fridge space, or would prefer not to.
Longer answer, if you’re more technical, like that:
The Protein Factory products are produced using a proprietary process, such that, if the outer packaging protecting the products from the environment is intact, with no damage or leaks, the products will technically last forever, without spoiling. This is why we mark our product with a Best Before date, and not an expiry date.
That being said, all products (and even pharmaceutical drugs or nutritional supplements) deteriorate over time from a texture and flavour perspective. This is why we suggest enjoying the protein factory products within the marked Best Before date range.
The main source of protein in Protein Factory products is a premium, European sourced, cows milk protein isolate.
These proteins contain all 9 essential amino acids at levels exceeding the standard reference ranges, and are considered “Complete Proteins” (most plant proteins are not complete proteins, and need to be blended with other proteins in order to achieve the correct amino acid ratios).
Sucralose and acesulfame potassium (Ace-K) are ideal sweeteners for Protein Factory products because they deliver a sugar-like sweetness without calories or unpleasant aftertastes. These sweeteners have been shown to support fat loss when used in place of sugar, offering all the taste benefits without the typical downsides of sugar.
Both sweeteners are FDA-approved and have undergone rigorous safety testing. Acesulfame potassium was reviewed in more than 90 studies, while sucralose was evaluated in over 110 studies. These assessments found no evidence linking them to negative health effects in humans.
Recent human studies (Thomson et al., 2019; Ahmad et al., 2020) show no significant impact on gut microbiota or metabolic health from sucralose consumption, effectively debunking common myths about artificial sweeteners. While some animal studies (such as Bian et al., 2017) have raised concerns, these findings have not been consistently replicated in human trials, and to date, these are the best non glycaemic sweeteners we have for low calorie applications.
Protein Factory does not use seed oils in any of our products.
Our high-protein products are designed to be low in sugar and calories, making them a great fit for many low-carb or keto-leaning lifestyles. While we don’t make official claims about “net carbs” (it’s not an FDA-regulated term), the carbohydrates in our Protein Factory products contribute only between 40 - 52 calories per serving—thanks to ingredients with a reduced calorie impact.
That means they’re generally considered blood-sugar-friendly, but everyone’s response is different. If you're following a strict keto or banting diet, we recommend checking your individual response using a glucose monitor, or get professional advice from a dietician.
All protein factory products are certified Halaal by SANHA: Reg no. S-1884.
While Protein Factory Products are produced with ingredients that are all “Kosher-able”, the actual finished products are not officially Kosher certified.
ORDERS AND SHIPPING
You can check your order status in two ways:
After placing your order, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a “View Your Order” button. Click that link anytime to see the latest updates, including tracking details once your order has shipped.
Simply log in to your account to view your full order history and track the status of any current orders.
If you need help finding your confirmation email or accessing your account, feel free to contact us — we're happy to help!
We use The Courier Guy for all deliveries in South Africa.
Tracked Delivery: Your order is fully tracked from collection to drop-off for complete peace of mind.
Tracking Details: A tracking number is sent to you as soon as your order is dispatched.
- Free Shipping: Enjoy free delivery on all orders over R800 nationwide (RSA).
- Standard Shipping: A flat rate of R89 applies to orders under R800.
- Fast & Reliable Delivery:
- Western Cape: Typically overnight.
- Gauteng & Rest of SA: Usually 3 days.
- Tracked Delivery: Your order is fully tracked from collection to drop-off for complete peace of mind.
- Tracking Details: A tracking number is sent to you as soon as your order is dispatched.
If you decide you’d like to return your shipment and there is no specific problem with the products you recived, you can return any unopened packs within 30 days of purchase for a refund. We will send you a return mail prepaid label, and instructions for collection.
Unfortunately, we cannot accept returns for opened packs. If you return an opened pack, we will not be able to refund this and it will not be returned to you.
If you have a specific problem with your product, and you want to return for a refund, please contact customer support at support@theproteinfactory.co so we can figure out how best to solve this problem for you.
To return unopened packs, please contact us at support@theproteinfactory.co for a Reference Return Number which will need to be affixed to the box along with the prepaid return sticker, and sent back to:
Protein Factory
Unit 5 Waterstone
61 Capricorn Drive
Capricorn Park
Muizenberg
Cape Town
7945
You will receive a refund for the returned packs within 14 days.
This Policy does not apply to clearance products.
If you change your mind, you can return any unopened packs within 30 days of purchase for a refund. We will send you a return mail prepaid label, and instructions for collection.
Unfortunately, we cannot accept returns for opened packs. If you return an opened pack, we will not be able to refund this and it will not be returned to you.
If you wish to return unopened packs, please contact us at support@theproteinfactory.co for a Reference Return Number which will need to be affixed to the box along with the prepaid return sticker, and sent back to:
Protein Factory
Unit 5 Waterstone
61 Capricorn Drive
Capricorn Park
Muizenberg
Cape Town
7945
You will receive a refund for the returned packs within 14 days.
This Policy does not apply to clearance products.
Yes, but only if you’re able to contact our customer service before the waybill is printed and send to The Courier Guy for collection. Contact customer service at support@theproteinfactory.co
Yes, VAT will be levied at the statutory VAT rate in place at the time the order was placed.
Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, and others), Instant EFT, QR code payments (Zapper, SnapScan), Mobicred, and more.
Thanks for asking. At this time, we’re only shipping within South Africa, but we’re actively looking at expanding to bring our Protein Factory products to more good folks around the globe!