The average human tongue contains about 2,000 to 8,000 taste buds, although this number may vary between individuals. Taste buds are small sensory organs on the tongue that allow us to perceive different tastes such as sweet, salty, sour, umami, and bitter. These taste buds contain taste receptor cells that send signals to the brain to interpret the taste. Additionally, taste buds are also found in other areas of the mouth, including the cheeks, roof of the mouth, and throat.