Why Have These Brands Vanished?
Though each brand has its own story, the general reasons behind their disappearance appear to be a combination of wider industry challenges:
1. Post-Pandemic Market Shift
The pandemic brought a short-term boom in health and diet products. But as habits stabilised and people returned to more balanced lifestyles, demand for restrictive diet programmes began to decline.
2. Intense Competition
The meal replacement sector has become increasingly saturated, with newer brands using slick marketing, influencer partnerships, and subscription models to draw in a younger demographic.
3. Consumer Mindset Shift
More people are now rejecting “diet culture” in favour of holistic wellness, intuitive eating, and sustainable weight management. Brands that didn’t adapt their messaging or product lines may have been left behind.
4. Economic Pressures
Supply chain costs, ingredient shortages, and inflation have affected many nutrition companies. Some simply couldn’t maintain profitability in the current market.
Still Want Meal Replacements? Current Alternatives to Try
While some of the major legacy names have now gone, there are still several active and well-reviewed options if you're looking for a convenient shake, soup, or bar to help manage your calorie intake:
Huel
Focused on plant-based, complete nutrition, Huel offers shakes, hot meals, and bars. It’s less about fast weight loss and more about sustainable meal replacement and fuelling busy lifestyles. https://uk.huel.com
The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan
Although structured and consultant-led, this plan is still active in the UK and remains a top choice for those who like a tailored programme with personal support. https://www.one2onediet.com
Shake That Weight
Still trading and offering low-calorie products including shakes, meal pots, and snacks. They cater to flexible or strict plans and are especially suited to people who want something straightforward. https://www.shakethatweight.co.uk
✅ Protein Works / Protein World
Both brands offer meal replacement options aimed at weight management and muscle tone. With high-protein shakes and plenty of flavour options, they work well for gym-goers and busy professionals alike. https://www.proteinworld.com
Juice Plus Complete
A more lifestyle-focused programme combining shakes and supplements, Juice Plus is popular in the wellness community and may appeal to those wanting a long-term plan with added nutritional support.
Over the Summer That's Food and Drink will be reaching out to alternatives to Celebrity Slim, Exante and Slim & Save to bring news of their meal replacement products.
If you are working for or with a company providing such products please reach out to us at afj_uk@Yahoo.com. We'd love to hear from you.