THERE are more than a thousand pubs, cafes, takeaways and restaurants that have scored top of the charts when it comes to food hygiene rating in County Durham.

A total of 1,032 such venues across the county currently have a 5-star food hygiene rating, the highest any food outlet can score.

The ratings, which are from The Food Standards Agency, are based on inspections carried out by food standards inspectors within the Durham County Council area. 

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Across the UK, every food outlet including convenience stores, hospitals and care homes are given a hygiene rating.

The ratings, which are based on hygiene and safety, structural compliance and confidence in management, are routinely reviewed to ensure standards are upheld.

There are currently 4,755 businesses under the Durham County Council area which must be given a food hygiene rating in order to trade. 

What each hygiene rating means

0 - Urgent Improvement Necessary
1 - Major Improvement Necessary
2 - Some Improvement Necessary
3 - Hygiene Standards Generally Satisfactory
4 - Hygiene Standards Good
5 - Hygiene Standards Very Good

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