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The country’s Royal Academy of Medicine says it is unethical to subject children to the diet, as it misses animal proteins and vital amino acids.

It argues a proper vegan diet requires medical supervision, regular blood tests and vitamin supplements.

Around 3% of kids in Belgium follow a vegan diet, the Daily Telegraph reports.

Part of the opinion reads: “This restrictive regime requires ongoing monitoring of children to avoid deficiencies and often irreversible growth delays.

“It is unsuitable for unborn children, children, teenagers and pregnant and lactating women.

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"It is not medically recommended and even forbidden to subject a child, especially during periods of rapid growth, to a potentially destabilising diet, requiring frequent supplementation and control.

“This concept of nutrition is similar to a form of treatment that it is not ethical to impose on children.”

It was requested by government official Bernard Devos after a number of deaths in schools, nurseries and hospitals.

But the details of these deaths have not been made public, and there is no known link to the children’s diets.

Professor Casimir claims a vegan diet could now qualify as “non-assistance to a person in danger”, a crime which carries a maximum sentence of two years in jail .

(Image: GETTY)

However, a person cannot be convicted of the crime if they are unaware the person is in danger.

The report’s findings were slammed by animal rights activists and vegans.

Dawn Carr, director of Corporate Projects for PETA, said: “What a load of ignorant codswallop!

“NHS nutritionists confirm that while a meat- and dairy-based diet is what strikes people down in adulthood – as it can lead to hardened arteries that cause stroke, brain aneurysms, and heart attacks – a well-planned vegan diet is perfect for babies and children.

"Kids, including my own, thrive on a balanced vegan diet, but as with any dietary regime, it's the parent's responsibility to ensure their child is getting all the necessary nutrients.

“And yes, that's easier to achieve on a vibrant vegan diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, and pulses."

Heather Russell, of The Vegan Society, added: “Nutritional planning is important for everyone, not just vegans. It’s possible to provide all the nutrients needed for growth and development without animal products.

“Both the British Dietetic Association and the American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recognise that well-planned vegan diets can support healthy living in people of all ages, including infants, children, teenagers and pregnant and breastfeeding women.”

In 2017, a couple received a suspended six-month jail term after their seven-month old baby died of malnutrition and dehydration.

Doctors blamed the parents’ choice to only feed it vegetable milk.