Eight million Brits no longer eat meat, according to a study by trade magazine The Grocer, which shows 12 per cent of people are meat-free.

A survey of more than 2,000 people found six per cent call themselves vegetarian, four per cent are pescetarian and two per cent vegan.

UK correspondent Gavin Grey told Kate Hawkesby the movement's being driven by younger people.

"The research has shown younger consumers are more likely to have concerns about the ethics of eating meat."

Results also show sales of spinach grew strongly compared to the prior 12 months, up by 43 per cent.

LISTEN TO GAVIN GREY TALK WITH KATE HAWKESBY ABOVE