DES MOINES, Iowa - The Iowa Grocery Industry Association is urging people to not to stockpile items.
The group says there's no shortage of product, stating that empty shelves are due to increased demand, not a lack of inventory.
The association says grocers are working around the clock to stock shelves and sanitize stores. Many Iowa grocery stores have shortened their hours and set time periods specifically for seniors to shop in response to the COVID-10 outbreak.
The grocery association is asking that people only purchase what they need so that their friends and neighbors can get what they need as well.
Hy-Vee, Fareway and Aldi are among the grocery stores that have reduced their hours of operation. Hy-Vee is now open 8 am to 8 pm, but allows allows 60 and older to shop between 7 am and 8 am. Most Fareway stores are now open from 7 or 8 am to 9 pm. Aldi now operates from 9 am until 7 pm daily.
The grocers say they are spending extra time after hours to sanitize their stores.