Officials are asking people not to do it, but customers scared by the coronavirus are emptying area stores of certain items with an effort to stockpile.
At Giant Tiger on Lakeshore Drive, notices on shelves say "Due to unforeseen demand when this item was ordered we have sold out."
Metro on Lakeshore was placing limits on some items.
Ever since the COVID-19 outbreak was declared a pandemic, panicked buyers have started hoarding food, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper, fearful of being isolated for days and maybe a couple of weeks.
On its website, Health Canada says what you should include in an emergency kit.
But experts say hoarding of items isn't necessary and according to the Public Health Agency of Canada the public health risk linked to COVID-19 is low for Canada.
At this time though, it makes sense to fill your cupboards with non-perishable food items, so that you do not need to go shopping if you become sick.
It is easier on the supply chain if people gradually build up their household stores instead of making large-scale purchases all at once. To do this, you can add a few extra items to your grocery cart every time you shop. Good options are easy-to-prepare foods like:
- dried pasta and sauce
- prepared canned soups
- canned vegetables and beans
It is also a good idea to have extra stores of:
- pet food
- toilet paper
- facial tissue
- feminine hygiene products
- diapers (if you have children who use them)
The reason for stocking up on these items is not necessarily because you will need to self-isolate. Having these supplies on hand will ensure you do not need to leave your home at the peak of the outbreak or if you become ill.
