Cheese is a popular dairy product that is widely consumed around the world. It is made through the fermentation process of milk, which is similar to the process of making yogurt. Both cheese and yogurt contain lactic acid bacteria, which are beneficial to our health.

The production process of cheese involves concentrating milk, which results in a high concentration of protein, calcium, fat, phosphorus, and vitamins in every kilogram of cheese. As a result, cheese is considered to be a natural and pure food product.

There are over 8,000 types of cheese in the world, and they can be classified into different categories based on various factors such as fermentation time, texture, production method, fat content, milk source, and place of origin.

The first classification of cheese is based on its moisture content, which determines the cheese's hardness or softness. There are four categories of cheese based on moisture content: soft, semi-soft, medium-hard, and hard. Soft cheese has a high moisture content, is soft and moist, and has a fresh, milky fragrance. However, it has a short shelf life and should be consumed quickly.

Semi-soft cheese has a milder taste and more moisture compared to hard cheese. Medium-hard cheese is a transition between soft and hard cheese and has a mild, smooth taste. Hard cheese, on the other hand, is the most commonly consumed cheese. It has a harder texture, a slightly salty taste, low water content, and is aged for a longer period compared to the soft cheese.

The second classification of cheese is based on the milk source used in its production. The most common milk source used for cheese production is cow's milk. Other milk sources used for cheese production include goat's milk, sheep's milk, and donkey's milk.

Goat cheese has a slightly acidic taste and a texture similar to nuts. Sheep cheese has a milder taste and texture compared to goat cheese and is a good choice for people who are allergic to milk but love cheese. Donkey's milk cheese, known as Pulai cheese, is the most expensive cheese in the world and is made using donkey's milk, which is unique to a nature reserve in Serbia.

In conclusion, cheese is a delicious and nutritious dairy product that is enjoyed by people all over the world. With its many different varieties, there is a type of cheese for everyone's taste buds. Whether you prefer a mild, smooth taste or a more acidic taste, there is cheese out there for you.