Home » 1st Phorm Review: Built on Buzzwords or Proven Performance?

1st Phorm Review: Built on Buzzwords or Proven Performance?

1st Phorm Review

1st Phorm operates in the fitness industry, offering protein powders, pre-workouts, greens powders, vitamins, and digestive aids. The company also offers a clothing range and maintains a mobile application that provides workout and nutrition tracking features.

1st Phorm categorizes its offerings by goals such as weight management, muscle building, digestion, and overall wellness. Its product range includes options like Opti-Greens 50, a greens powder with digestive enzymes and probiotics, and Phorm Energy, a zero-sugar drink with B vitamins and electrolytes.

This review will cover everything, including 1st Phorm’s philosophy, its product lineup, service features, and customer support approach. It will also cover the brand's advantages, areas for improvement, and how it compares with similar brands in the supplement industry.

About 1st Phorm

1st Phorm is a supplement company that claims that all its products are manufactured in FDA-inspected, SQF Level 3 certified, and cGMP-compliant facilities in the United States. The brand mentions that the ingredients used in its product batches undergo third-party testing, and also provides Certificates of Analysis.

1st Phorm’s catalog includes protein powders such as Phormula-1 and Level-1, a plant-based Vegan Power Pro, and Collagen with Dermaval.

Other brand offerings include creatine monohydrate, BCAAs, Ignition (a post-workout carbohydrate supplement), micronutrient packs like Micro Factor, and greens and reds powders. The brand also sells ready-to-consume products, including Level-1 Protein Bars and Phorm Energy drinks.

As per the official website, the brand’s app feature functions as a combined nutrition, workout, and coaching platform. It includes food and water logging features, workout plans for various experience levels, and direct messaging with certified advisors for premium users.

1st Phorm Review

1st Phorm Products

  1. Phormula-1

    Phormula-1 is a whey protein isolate from 1st Phorm, which may support rapid digestion and muscle recovery. It contains cross-flow micro-filtrated whey isolate processed at low temperatures, which helps preserve amino acid integrity. The powder is said to be low in lactose and fat and is designed to be bioavailable for efficient absorption.

    As per the official website, Phormula-1 provides 23 grams of protein per one scoop, aimed at supplying essential amino acids post-exercise or upon waking. The formulation is intended to support muscle repair and recovery after workouts. It has 110 calories, 0.5g total fat, 1g carbohydrate, and 140mg of sodium, with no added sugars. To use, the makers suggest mixing one scoop of  Phormula-1 with six ounces of cold water by shaking or stirring. Blending is not recommended.

  2. Megawatt

    According to the makers, Megawatt may support mental focus, physical energy, and training performance. It contains natural caffeine, nootropic compounds, B vitamins, and electrolytes to address both cognitive and physical demands during workouts.

    Megawatt provides 150 mg of caffeine sourced from green coffee bean (Coffea robusta) per scoop, which stimulates the central nervous system to help increase alertness and reduce perceived effort during exercise. It’s combined with 100 mg of NeuroFactor (whole coffee fruit extract from Coffea arabica), which may support brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein linked to brain function.

    The formula also includes 50 mcg of Huperzine A (from Huperzia serrata), which could help prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in muscle contraction and focus.

    The nootropic profile in Megawatt includes 400 mg of choline (as choline L-bitartrate), a precursor to acetylcholine that supports mental clarity and muscular control. It also contains 1,000 mg of L-tyrosine, which can support mood, motivation, and cognitive function under stress.

    To enhance ingredient bioavailability, the formula includes 10 mg of BioPerine® (black pepper extract standardized to 95% piperine), which may improve the absorption of several nutrients and compounds within the blend.

    The makers also added magnesium (as magnesium citrate) in Megawatt, which could support muscle relaxation and energy production, while sodium (from sea salt) may help maintain fluid balance and nerve function.

    The formula also includes Phyt02, a proprietary blend containing extracts such as acerola juice, grape seed, green tea, turmeric, and others. These plant compounds could help counteract oxidative stress associated with high-intensity training.

  3. L-Carnitine with Fucoxanthin

    L-Carnitine with Fucoxanthin by 1st Phorm could support fat metabolism and energy production. It combines l-carnitine, fucoxanthin, green tea extract, and other supporting nutrients aimed at assisting metabolic processes and fat utilization.

    The makers state that L-Carnitine with Fucoxanthin provides 1,500 mg of L-Carnitine L-Tartrate per one scoop (4g). This process supports the use of stored fat as a fuel source during physical activity.

    The formula also includes 2.5 mg of Fucoxanthin, a carotenoid derived from marine algae. Fucoxanthin may accumulate in fat tissue and has been studied for its potential to decrease fat

    accumulation.

    To support antioxidant activity during fat metabolism, 200 mg of green tea leaf extract is included in L-Carnitine with Fucoxanthin, which helps reduce oxidative stress and assists in the breakdown of metabolic byproducts.

  4. Opti-Health Stack

    As per the official website, the Opti-Health Stack from 1st Phorm combines two supplements, including Opti-Greens 50 and Opti-Reds 50, to support digestion, immune function, circulation, and nutrient delivery.

    Opti-Greens 50 in this stack contains a Green Superfood Complex made up of organic barley grass, spirulina, wheatgrass, alfalfa, oat grass, kale, spinach, parsley, and broccoli extract.

    Barley grass and wheatgrass are sources of chlorophyll and micronutrients that may aid digestion and maintain acid-alkaline balance.

    Broccoli extract in this formula includes sulforaphane, which could support cellular detoxification and inflammation response. The Opti-Health Stack also includes Opti-Reds 50, which combines a Phytonutrient Complex containing beetroot that contains dietary nitrates, which may support blood flow and vascular function. It also has curcumin, derived from turmeric, which may help regulate inflammatory pathways.

    Berries like blueberry, bilberry, elderberry, and cranberry in Opti-Reds 50 offer polyphenols and anthocyanins that may protect against oxidative stress and support immune signaling.

  5. Micro Factor

    Micro Factor Nutrient pack by 1st Phorm combines six formulas into one packet to support multiple aspects of fitness, including better hormonal balance, steady energy, and immune function.

    The multivitamin formula in the Micro Factor Nutrient pack provides essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to metabolic and enzymatic processes such as cellular repair, hormone production, and energy metabolism.

    Micro Factor Nutrient pack could help neutralize free radicals, which are byproducts of oxidative stress. Reducing oxidative stress may contribute to cellular integrity and immune system support.

    The probiotic formula in the Micro Factor Nutrient pack provides 8 billion CFUs from various bacterial strains. These strains are intended to support digestion, gut microbiota balance, and nutrient absorption.

    The makers also provide the Essential Fatty Acid (EFA) formula in the Micro Factor Nutrient pack, which combines omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s play a role in modulating inflammation and supporting functions related to brain, joint, and heart health.

    Micro Factor Nutrient pack also features a formula that contains fruits, vegetables, and herbal extracts such as green tea, turmeric, spinach, and elderberry standardized for antioxidant activity and ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity) value.

    As per the official website, Micro Factor is intended to be taken one pack once daily, ideally with food and water, to support daily micronutrient intake across several functional fitness categories, including digestion, metabolism, cardiovascular support, and immune response.

  6. M-Factor Kiddos

    1st Phorm’s M-Factor Kiddos is a multivitamin gummy formulated for your children aged two years and older. It provides vitamins and minerals typically used to help fill nutritional gaps in the child’s diet.

    M-Factor Kiddos includes vitamin A in the form of acetate, which may support healthy vision and immune function. Vitamin C is included to assist in collagen production, antioxidant activity, and immune system support. These gummies also combine vitamin D, provided as cholecalciferol, which helps promote calcium absorption, contributing to bone and dental health.

    M-Factor Kiddos gummies also provide vitamin E, which functions as an antioxidant and supports skin health. B vitamins such as B6 and B12 are present in these gummies, which might help in energy metabolism, neurological function, and RBC formation.

    As per the official website, biotin in M-Factor Kiddos might support the maintenance of skin, hair, and nails, while pantothenic acid works with other B vitamins to convert food into energy. The formula also includes choline and inositol, both associated with brain development and nervous system function. Iodine is added for its role in maintaining thyroid function, which influences metabolism and growth.

  7. Collagen with Dermaval

    Collagen with Dermaval by 1st Phorm contains Types I, II, III, V, and X collagens. These are sourced from hydrolyzed bovine collagen peptides, hydrolyzed bovine bone broth protein, hydrolyzed fish collagen peptides, chicken bone broth collagen, and eggshell membrane collagen. The hydrolyzed form supports easier absorption, and the makers state that the collagen is processed at low temperatures to retain nutritional properties.

    Collagen with Dermaval provides 50 mg of Dermaval per one scoop, a botanical complex that may help support elastin levels. Elastin is a protein involved in skin elasticity and flexibility. Dermaval is made from ingredients like pomegranate, asparagus shoot, okra, coffee fruit, acerola, camu camu, quercetin flower extract, mangosteen, and acai. These botanicals are selected for their antioxidant content.

    Pomegranate in the Collagen with Dermaval formula is rich in polyphenols that may help reduce oxidative stress in skin tissue, which is important for maintaining the structure of elastin and collagen. Asparagus shoot contains saponins and flavonoids that may support collagen integrity, dermal hydration, and overall skin resilience. Okra in Dermaval blend provides mucilage and antioxidant compounds that could contribute to your skin’s moisture barrier and help reduce environmental damage.

    As per the official website, Collagen with Dermaval includes cocoa powder, natural flavors, and sucralose for taste. It comes as a powder that can be mixed into various beverages, including coffee, smoothies, or water. The makers suggest taking 1 to 2 scoops of Collagen with Dermaval per day, mixed with 8 ounces of a preferred hot or cold liquid.

  8. Full-Mega

    According to the makers, Full-Mega by 1st Phorm is a fish oil formula that provides a concentrated omega-3 fatty acid source, including EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid). It provides a total of 2.5 grams of omega-3 concentrate, including 900 mg of EPA, 600 mg of DHA, and around 300 mg of other omega-3 fatty acids per two-softgel. These nutrients could support cardiovascular function, cognitive health, and help manage systemic inflammation. The omega-3s in Full-Mega are sourced from wild-caught cold-water fish such as Icelandic mackerel, herring, anchovies, and sardines.

1st Phorm Advantages

  1. NSF Certified Brand

    1st Phorm offers products that are NSF Certified for Sport®, which is a third-party verification confirming that the supplements are free from over 270 banned substances and that ingredient amounts match what’s listed on the label.

    Ist Phorm’s products like Phormula‑1, Level‑1, Ignition, and Creatine Monohydrate fall under this certification, which professional and collegiate sports organizations recognize.

    Meanwhile, Transparent Labs and 1UP Nutrition do not have any products listed under the NSF Certified for Sport® program. While they promote third-party testing and clean formulations, they don’t meet the specific certification criteria tied to NSF for Sport®.

    If you require supplements that meet strict testing standards such as screening for banned substances and third-party verification of ingredient accuracy, 1st Phorm’s NSF Certified for Sport® products provide assurance that what you're taking is compliant and accurately labeled, which can help you meet athletic or regulatory requirements with less risk.

  2. Offers All In One App

    1st Phorm provides an app that combines workout programming, macro tracking, food logging, educational content, and access to certified trainers and dietitians for 1-on-1 support. It also includes daily nutrition planning tools, interactive assessments, and the ability to adjust recommendations based on your input. A built-in transformation challenge adds structure through scheduled training, community elements, and financial incentives.

    On the other hand, 1UP Nutrition offers a similar challenge model with an 8-week training plan, free meal guidance, and educational material. Support is available through a private Facebook group, but personalization is mostly automated, and coaching is community-based rather than expert-led. The app covers basic tracking and guidance, but doesn’t fully integrate coaching and nutrition within a single system.

    Transparent Labs offers minimal digital support, limited to a macro calculator and general educational content. It does not include transformation programs, coaching, or a structured app experience. The focus is mainly on product formulation and label transparency, not digital engagement.

    Thus, 1st Phorm’s app may reduce the need to manage multiple tools or external resources. It could make it easier to maintain consistency and access support without switching between apps or services by offering most functions on a single platform.

1st Phorm Limitations

  1. Concerning Email Subscription Transparency

    Between 2023 and 2025, several BBB complaints point to recurring concerns about 1st Phorm’s email marketing practices. Some people reported receiving promotional emails despite not recalling any interaction with the brand. For instance, in a 2023 complaint, a user noted ongoing email outreach even after multiple unsubscribe attempts. Similar concerns appeared in 2025, with users stating they received frequent emails without knowingly signing up, and in some cases, were unable to block or opt out easily.

    1st Phorm responded by saying email addresses may have been entered on the site or at checkout, sometimes as far back as 2022. In most cases, the company manually removed the email addresses after being contacted. While these steps helped resolve individual issues, they point to possible gaps in how the brand collects and manages email permissions.

    This could mean you might receive marketing emails from the brand even if you don’t remember signing up, and it may not always be clear how to stop them. This could lead to unwanted communication and limited control over your contact preferences.

Pros

  • NSF Certified for Sport and Informed‑Choice tested, reducing the risk of banned substances.
  • Offers a dedicated fitness app with nutrition tracking, workouts, community challenges, and live streams.

Cons

  • Concerns regarding the brand’s email system.
  • The brand’s protein powders may cause digestive concerns in some people.

1st Phorm Alternatives

  1. 1up Nutrition

    1UP Nutrition and 1st Phorm differ in their approach to supplements, product structure, and customer interaction. Both offer an extensive range of fitness products, but the specifics of their catalogs and support tools show clear distinctions.

    As per its official website, 1UP Nutrition focuses on open-label supplements produced in an FDA-inspected, cGMP-certified facility. Its protein lineup includes 1UP Whey Protein (a blend of whey and isolate), 1UP ISO Protein (zero fat and sugar), Clear Protein Isolate (juice-style formula), Vegan Protein, and 100% Egg White Protein. Outside protein, the brand offers products like Colostrum + Metabolic Postbiotic, Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides, Super Magnesium, Vegan Greens & Reds Superfoods Plus, Hydration Plus, and a range of multivitamins. It also provides supplements for specific use cases such as BCAAs and EAAs, post-workout recovery, gut health, stress support, fat burners like Pro Ripped MAX, and sleep aids like Beauty Dream PM. The brand also sells pre-built supplement stacks aimed at goals like fat loss, muscle building, and recovery. A limited selection of branded apparel and accessories is also available.

    1st Phorm, on the other hand, offers a broader portfolio that combines performance supplements with daily fitness products. Its protein range includes Phormula-1 (fast-digesting isolate), Level-1 (sustained-release blend), Vegan Power Pro, and other whey-based options. The brand also offers Daily wellness products, including Micro Factor (available in packet and powdered form), M-Factor Men and M-Factor Goddess multivitamins, and greens powders such as Opti-Greens 50 and Opti-Reds 50.

    1st Phorm also features hormone-focused supplements like Primal-T, Conquest, and Night-T, as well as immune support products including Liposomal Vitamin C and D3, digestive enzymes, and nutrient support formulas. The brand markets an extensive clothing line categorized into men's, women's, kids', and outdoor collections.

    1UP Nutrition provides a supplement quiz to recommend products and offers a fitness app, transformation challenges, downloadable meal plans, blog content, and an ebook with recipes. 1st Phorm also offers a product quiz but expands its support through the 1st Phorm App. This app includes tracking for food (via voice, barcode, or photo), a workout library, live education, and access to certified trainers and nutrition coaches, with some features available only through a premium plan.

    According to their official website, 1UP Nutrition accepts returns within 30 days of purchase, but only if the product is less than 20% used. A Return Product Authorization (RPA) is required, and customers must cover shipping costs. Refunds are issued within roughly seven business days after receipt. In comparison, 1st Phorm also allows returns within 30 days and advertises a 110% money-back guarantee, which includes the product’s purchase price plus an additional 10%, excluding shipping. The unused portion must be returned, and customers are responsible for return shipping.

    These differences in product composition, support infrastructure, and operational policies suggest each brand prioritizes distinct aspects of the supplement experience. 1UP Nutrition focuses on standalone product clarity and segmented use cases, while 1st Phorm integrates its products into a broader system that includes coaching, tracking, and bundled wellness tools.

  2. Transparent Labs

    Transparent Labs and 1st Phorm differ in how they formulate and structure their supplement offerings.

    According to its official website, Transparent Labs focuses on ingredient-level transparency, using individual formulations without proprietary blends or artificial additives. The brand offers its products with exact dosages and labeling, and also provides a certificate of analysis.

    1st Phorm, on the other hand, uses a broader approach with a mix of individual products and bundled systems. Some of their formulations, like Project-1, include proprietary blends, and their product range often ties into pre-configured stacks aimed at specific goals.

    In terms of protein varieties, Transparent Labs includes several variants like Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate ($59.99), Organic Vegan Protein Isolate ($49.99), Micellar Casein ($59.99), and Mass Gainer ($79.99). Their Protein+ Bars ($39.99) are also included in the lineup. 1st Phorm offers proteins like Phormula‑1 ($64.99), Level‑1 ($59.99), Vegan Power Pro ($56.99), and Level‑1 Bars (~$44.99). Both brands offer dairy-based and plant-based options, though 1st Phorm includes whey blends while Transparent Labs sticks to isolates and separates each formula by function.

    Pre-workout products are another area of difference. Transparent Labs separates its offerings into specific goals such as Bulk and Bulk Black for muscle gain, Lean ($49.99) for thermogenic effects, Stim-Free and Pump for those avoiding caffeine, and Cognition for focus.

    On the other hand, 1st Phorm’s lineup includes Megawatt ($46.99), Project‑1 ($56.99), and stimulant-free options like AlphaSurge and Endura-Formance ($45–$46). It also sells Phorm Energy (~$32.99 for 12 cans), a ready-to-drink format. The main contrast lies in how the products are positioned as Transparent Labs markets each pre-workout with a clear, standalone function, while 1st Phorm combines categories like energy, endurance, and recovery within or across its offerings.

    Transparent Labs sells products like Creatine HMB ($49.99), Growth ($59.99), BCAA + Glutamine, Cyclic Dextrin, and Sleep & Recover as separate, single-function products. 1st Phorm approaches recovery through combinations such as the Post-Workout Stack ($82.99) and broader nutrient systems like Micro Factor daily packs ($69.99). Transparent Labs maintains product separation by intended use, whereas 1st Phorm often integrates multiple functions into bundled kits.

    Pricing structures reflect these differences. Transparent Labs generally keeps its prices between $29.99 and $59.99, with only a few products like Mass Gainer reaching up to $79.99. Pricing is per item and remains consistent across categories. 1st Phorm spans a broader range, as its products like Phormula‑1 cost $64.99, while bundles like the Opti-Health Stack go up to $124.98. Transparent Labs prices individual products by type and dosage, while 1st Phorm uses tiered pricing based on package size and intended stacking.

    Transparent Labs focuses solely on supplements and does not sell apparel. 1st Phorm includes lifestyle items like branded clothing and accessories, adding a merchandising layer beyond its core products.

How Did We Evaluate the 1st Phorm?

  1. Brand Reputation

    To evaluate 1st Phorm, we looked at factors like brand age, company background, and third-party review data from sources such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot.

    Founded in 2008, 1st Phorm has been in the supplement industry for over 15 years, indicating a stable presence and continued consumer interest. The brand primarily targets the fitness community, with a focus on performance and health supplements.

    In terms of third-party credibility, 1st Phorm holds an A+ rating from the BBB. This rating reflects how effectively the company responds to and resolves consumer complaints, suggesting a good track record in customer service and transparency. However, the brand is not listed on Trustpilot, which limits access to independent user feedback on product satisfaction and service reliability.

    Taking these elements into account, 1st Phorm appears to be a long-standing and responsive company. Still, the absence of reviews on consumer-facing platforms like Trustpilot means there's limited insight into everyday customer experiences beyond the brand’s controlled channels.

  2. Refund Policy And Procedure

    We closely examined 1st Phorm’s refund policy to understand how the brand approaches customer satisfaction and accountability.

    The brand’s 110% Money Back Guarantee initially signals strong confidence in its products and a low-risk commitment for buyers.

    However, the policy includes specific conditions such as returns must be initiated within 30 days, the customer must cover return shipping, and the refund is issued only after the product is received and processed.

    While this approach is fairly standard, the added 10% refund does stand out, though it’s counterbalanced by a clause that allows the brand to decline returns at its discretion.

    We also considered the level of post-purchase support. The brand offers free access to certified trainers and nutrition specialists, which shows a broader approach to customer service beyond just transactions. This could be helpful for customers not seeing results, but it may also serve to reduce return rates by offering alternatives to sending products back. The return policy appears generous but is moderated by practical conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do any 1st Phorm supplements contain proprietary blends?
    Yes. Some products offered by 1st Phorm use proprietary blends, especially in categories like fat burners or greens formulas. This means exact ingredient amounts may not be fully disclosed.
  • Does 1st Phorm offer a whey protein isolate?
    Yes. Ist Phorm’s offers a Phormula-1 formula, which is a high-quality, rapid-assimilation whey protein isolate designed for post-workout recovery.
  • Does 1st Phorm add artificial sweeteners in its protein powders?
    Yes. 1st Phorm includes sweeteners like sucralose in many of its protein products, including Phormula-1 and Level-1. This can be a drawback if you’re sensitive to artificial ingredients or trying to avoid them.

Conclusion

1st Phorm positions itself as a performance-focused supplement brand centered on ingredient transparency, scientific formulation, and goal-driven support. Its product line offers supplements that may support recovery, endurance, and better vitality.

The brand also offers an integrated digital platform through the 1st Phorm App, combining fitness tracking, structured programming, and access to certified coaches. This app-based model is designed to support consistency and long-term progress. The brand also has an NSF Certificate for Sport® on select products, which assures you that the brand prioritizes third-party testing.

However, 1st Phorm’s pricing tends to be higher than average, and some formulas include proprietary blends that could limit transparency around ingredient quantities. User reports also suggest the brand’s email marketing practices can be persistent, with limited control over unsubscribing.

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This project was supported in part by NSF Grant IIS-03-25867 (ITR: An Electronic Field Guide: Plant Exploration and Discovery in the 21st Century) and by the Washington Biologists' Field Club.
Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official views, opinions, or policy of the National Science Foundation (NSF).