Supermarkets say limits apply to some staple items, but most still available

Woolworths has applied purchasing limits to toilet paper, hand sanitiser and rice. Coles has applied limits to hand sanitiser of two packs per transaction in store and online.

Experts have warned Australians it's not sensible to bulk-buy toilet paper as coronavirus spreads.

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A Coles spokesperson said the supermarket was working constantly with suppliers to maintain availability of staple products.

The spokesperson said purchasing limits would help maintain stock levels so more customers could purchase what they need.

"Our suppliers have increased production and we are making additional deliveries to stores, while our team members work hard to restock shelves in stores," the spokesperson said.

"The vast majority of products in our stores and via Coles online remain available for customers."

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A Woolworths spokesperson said stores had seen an increase in demand of long-life pantry items and staples over the past week, which had led to stock shortages across some stores.

"We've been working closely with our suppliers to ramp up deliveries and production to maintain stock availability for our customers as best we can," the spokesperson said.

"We apologise to customers for the inconvenience and thank them for their patience."

Antibacterial handwash and sanitisers can be found behind the service desk at Woolworths.

With AAP.

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