Consumer preferences for the use of an innovative digital menu solution in public food service settings in four European countries

•Consumers from 4 countries were introduced to a FoodSMART app.•Consumer preferences for the use of a technical menu solution was investigated.•Canteen food quality is the top priority for consumers’ decision-making.•Food hygiene, sustainability, safety, and freshness were the highest priority.•Preferences for other criteria varied from country to country.