The opportunities for and barriers to antimicrobial resistance surveillance by lot quality assurance sampling in livestock: Findings from interviews with stakeholders in Germany

This article examines stakeholder perspectives on Lot Quality Assurance Sampling (LQAS) for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance in livestock in Germany. Stakeholders expressed concerns about AMR in livestock and restrictions on antibiotic treatment options. They saw potential benefits of LQAS in reducing sample sizes and reducing antibiotic susceptibility tests. However, concerns about surveilling commensal bacteria led to further restrictions on antibiotic consumption and driving food production overseas. Early engagement is needed to agree on the rationale and benefits of LQAS, particularly if surveilling resistance in commensal bacteria is considered.