Reusability challenges of livestock production data to improve animal health

In veterinary epidemiology, using data routinely generated by stakeholders of the livestock production chains offers an opportunity for researchers to access a large amount of information that could be used to improve animal health. However, (re)using these non-scholarly data doesn't come without challenges. This study assesses the reusability for research purposes of 30 European datasets generated by the livestock sector to meet legislative or operational needs. Information about each dataset was collected through a questionnaire survey filled by the data owner or the data user (researchers). Datasets were described, and their compliance with the FAIR principles, a data-sharing standard, and the principle of accountability defined in the General Data Protection Regulation were assessed. The study highlighted major gaps in terms of compliance with data regulations and implementation of good data management practices, specifically considering the rare use of metadata and standard vocabularies. Filling these gaps is essential to reap the full benefits offered by the rapidly growing volume of heterogeneous data available in livestock production systems.