Our Story

When we realised that the protein shakes we consumed daily didn't satisfy us, we saw an opportunity to create something different. Why settle for sugary, artificial protein drinks when you could have one with simple ingredients designed to taste even better?

Driven by this question, we founded protea, a Hong Kong-based company that has reinvented the protein drinking experience. We offer delicate tea flavours crafted for the local market, a light and refreshing drinking experience, and one of the cleanest ingredient lists in the industry.

At the heart of our innovation is clear whey protein—a purified form of whey that filters out excess sugars and fats, making it lactose-free. This is particularly significant in Asia, where a large portion of the population is lactose intolerant. By focusing on clear whey, we ensure that more people can enjoy the benefits of protein supplementation without discomfort. What started out as a small side project to import some protein powder quickly turned into a functional beverage business as we realised there were many ways to improve on what was out there.

The journey to create protea wasn't without challenges. Initially, we explored working with traditional contract manufacturers, but none could capture the unique blend of health benefits and local flavours we envisioned. Undeterred, we decided to take product development into our own hands.

We started experimenting in our kitchens, blending clear whey with different tea extracts. It was a lot of trial and error, but when we saw people actually enjoying the drink, we knew we were onto something. Our hands-on approach allowed us to integrate real-time feedback and refine our product swiftly. The result is a protein drink that's not just another supplement but a reflection of the community in which it was developed.

Since our launch four months ago, protea has quickly gained traction. We're now available in over 50 gyms across the city and are making our way into local retailers. We place a strong emphasis on the customer experience, gathering feedback through regular physical events and implementing requests like student discounts, subscriptions, and personalised online support.

Our mission goes beyond selling a product. We aim to build a community centred around wellness and supporting every kind of active lifestyle. The most rewarding part of this journey is seeing how protea fills a gap and how happy it makes people who have finally found a product they've been looking for.

We believe that blending innovation with the familiar can lead to something truly special. By honouring local tastes and prioritising health, we've created a protein drink that's as unique as the city it was born in.

 

The protea Team - 11/2024