Bud Light apologizes for label accused of encouraging rape culture

ST. LOUIS, April 29 (UPI) -- The makers of Bud Light have apologized for a beer bottle tagline that sparked widespread criticism Tuesday.

In a photo posted to Reddit, a bottle of the popular beer reads, "The perfect beer for removing 'No' from your vocabulary for the night," as part of Bud Light's "#UpForWhatever" campaign.

The label drew ire from online commentators who saw the slogan as an insensitive and out-of-touch promotion of rape culture.

Rep. Nita Lowey, D-N.Y., described the advertising strategy as "grossly shortsighted."

"[It] shows an epic lack of understanding of the dangers associated with excessive alcohol consumption, such as sexual assault and drunk driving," Lowey told the New York Times. "We need responsible companies to help us tackle these serious public health and safety problems, not encourage them."

Alexander Lambrecht, Bud Light's vice president, said in a statement that the bottle's label was one of "140 different scroll messages intended to encourage spontaneous fun."

"It's clear that this message missed the mark, and we regret it. We would never condone disrespectful or irresponsible behavior," Lambrecht said.

The company said it would stop producing labels with the slogan.