Linuron (3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1-methoxy-1-methylurea) is a phenylurea herbicide[1] that is used to control the growth of grass and weeds for the purpose of supporting the growth of crops like soybeans.

[2][3] Linuron acts via inhibition of photosystem II, which is necessary for photosynthetic electron transport in plants.

[2][3] Linuron has been found to produce reproductive toxicity in animals by acting as an androgen receptor (AR) antagonist, and for this reason, is considered to be an endocrine disruptor.

[2][4] Consequently, in January 2017, the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed (SCoPAFF) of the European Commission DG "Health and food safety" decided to not renew its regulatory approval.

[5] Sales are expected to cease by June 2017.