How many different type of cheeses are there?

It's impossible to give an exact number for how many different types of cheese there are. Here's why:

* No universally accepted definition: What constitutes a "type" of cheese is subjective. Some might classify cheese by region (e.g., French, Italian), milk source (cow, goat, sheep), texture (soft, hard), or flavor profile.

* Constant innovation: Cheesemakers are constantly creating new varieties, blending traditional techniques with new flavors and ingredients.

* Regional variations: Even within a specific type of cheese, there can be significant variations based on the region it's produced in. Think of the differences between a cheddar from England and a cheddar from Wisconsin.

However, here's some general information:

* Thousands of varieties: It's estimated there are thousands of different types of cheese worldwide.

* The "Cheese Bible" lists over 1,000. This book, written by a renowned cheese expert, is considered a standard reference.

* The World Cheese Awards: This annual competition typically sees entries from over 4,000 cheeses from around the globe.

So, while a definitive number is elusive, it's safe to say there's a huge and diverse world of cheese out there waiting to be explored!