Supermarkets have begun rationing food as a result of coronavirus panic buying.

Tesco is limiting the amount of baked beans, dry pasta and UHT milk its customers can buy to ensure they have enough supply, as its shelves were emptied across Britain.

On Saturday the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Britain rose to 206, with scientists warning diagnoses are doubling every other day. On its current trajectory, experts fear the UK could breach 1,500 by the end of the week.

Supermarkets have been forced to act after their shelves were plundered again on Saturday, with customers reporting shortages of ready meals, toilet roll and paracetamol.

Tesco took the decision to limit some food and drink to five items per customer, in addition to antibacterial gels, wipes and sprays.

A spokesman confirmed the restrictions, which will also limit the amount of Calpol people can purchase, began on Saturday, and will apply to online shopping orders from Sunday.

The Government is also expected to announce plans to alert supermarkets before the general public if they are in coronavirus hotspots, to help avoid empty aisles.

Retailers have reassured ministers they have robust plans in place to minimise disruption and are continuing to monitor their supply chains.

Sainsbury's and Asda have also seen their aisles stripped bare of soap and toilet paper, while online hand sanitiser products were selling for more than 5,000 per cent of their recommended retail price online, with bottles worth 49p going for £24.99. Further trends of panic buying include sugar, flour, eggs, rice, vitamins, cold and flu tablets, and cleaning products.

The Environment Secretary will meet with retailers on Monday to discuss support for vulnerable groups who may be in isolation and any other areas where government can offer support.