How many types of cheese is there?

There's no single, definitive answer to how many types of cheese exist. Here's why:

* Subjectivity: What constitutes a "type" is somewhat subjective. Is a cheddar aged for 6 months considered the same type as a cheddar aged for 2 years? Are all blue cheeses one type?

* Constant Innovation: Cheesemakers are constantly creating new varieties, so the number is always in flux.

* Regional Variations: Many cheeses have regional variations, often with subtle differences in flavor, texture, or production methods.

However, we can look at some common ways to categorize cheese:

* By origin: There are thousands of cheeses worldwide, with many countries having unique varieties (e.g., French, Italian, Swiss, American cheeses).

* By milk type: Cow's milk is most common, but cheeses can also be made from goat, sheep, buffalo, and even donkey milk.

* By texture: Soft, semi-soft, hard, blue, crumbly, spreadable, etc.

* By flavor: Mild, sharp, salty, sweet, tangy, earthy, etc.

* By production method: Some cheeses are made with rennet, others with vegetable rennet, some are aged, some are fresh, etc.

Estimates:

* Some sources estimate over 1,000 distinct types of cheese worldwide.

* Others suggest there are thousands of variations, considering regional differences.

So, while an exact number is hard to pin down, it's safe to say there are a very large and diverse number of cheese types out there, waiting to be explored!