The renin‑angiotensin system (RAS) serves a critical role in blood pressure regulation and prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Efforts to develop functional foods that enhance the RAS have focused on inhibition of angiotensin‑converting enzyme (ACE) activity in the ACE‑angiotensin II (Ang II)‑Ang II type 1 receptor axis. ACE2 and the Mas receptor are important components of this axis. ACE2 catalyzes Ang II into Ang‑(1‑7), which then binds to the G‑protein‑coupled receptor Mas. In addition, it induces nitric oxide release from endothelial cells and exerts antiproliferative, vasodilatory and antihypertensive effects. The present review examined recent findings regarding the physiological and biological roles of the ACE2‑Ang‑(1‑7)‑Mas axis in the cardiovascular system, discussed potential food‑derived ACE2‑activating agents, and highlighted initiatives, based on this axis, that aim to develop functional foods for the treatment of hypertension.