Majorie Paterson, a Bomaderry resident of 30 years, was shocked when a pensioner couldn't afford a small box of laundry power at IGA because it now cost $20.

"I think it's profiteering, there's no doubt about that," she said.

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"I know what IGA is like - they're going to be a bit higher than Aldi or Coles or Woolies but when they start doubling and tripling their prices, especially since this virus has been around, I think it stinks to high heaven."

Shadow Minister for Consumer Protection Julia Finn said it was disappointing to see the price of goods going up, especially when a lot of people were losing their jobs.

She said the government should extend price gouging laws it implemented for ticketing agents (like Viagogo) for essential items.

"There are so many businesses that are absolutely struggling at the moment, and so many people who've lost their jobs," Ms Finn said.

"And if you're lucky enough to have a business that still sells products people want to buy at the moment you shouldn't be exploiting them."

But chairman of ACCC Rod Sims said the rise of fresh produce prices wasn't because of price gouging.

"Social media posts have gone viral, excuse the pun, with allegations of price gouging against supermarkets over price rises for fresh produce, such as broccoli and cauliflower," Mr Sims said.

"Yes, prices of fresh produce have risen, quite a lot, but at this stage it appears this is mainly due to the effect of the drought and bushfires. Lower yields and short supply lead to higher costs and prices.

"We are closely examining, however, whether the players in the middle of the value chain have raised margins when they should not have."

He said regardless, price gouging is not against the law, it is only illegal for businesses to mislead consumers.

"We have, however, looked into allegations of price gouging and called it out when we have seen it, and provided information and context when we didn't believe price gouging was occurring, trying to quell consumer outrage," he said.

Mr Sims said his concern was ensuring there were sufficient supplies for small businesses to sell and that supermarkets remained open.

IGA has been contacted for comment.