Takealot return service sucks

So disappointed in Takealot’s service. Been purchasing a health item for the past 5 months. Last month the item came and does not taste right nor does it smell right. Reached out to Takealot for a return and they told me there’s nothing they could do. No exception. Sent me to the manufacturer. After I told them I already spoke to the manufacturer who said I should contact the retailer I’ve purchased it from, they asked for proof of the communication. The item is not a cheap product. It’s an expensive product. Guess I just lost my money.