Current communication reports the application of kinetic models viz., modified Gompertz, modified Logistic, Ratkowsky and Andrew model to study the acidogenic hydrogen (H-2) production along with volatile fatty acids (VFA) production and substrate degradation from various wastewater (dairy, distillery, chemical and designed synthetic wastewater) using mixed consortia. Influence of fermentation time was specifically evaluated by modified Gompertz and modified Logistic models on H-2 and VFA production. Influence of system redox condition on process was evaluated by Ratkowsky and Andrew models. The modified Gompertz model showed best fit for H-2 production as well as substrate degradation while modified Logistic model showed good acceptability with VFA production. The Andrew model describes both H-2 and VFA production with respect to system redox condition relatively well. This information provides an understanding of the process behavior, which can help in the design and upscaling of the process for efficient H-2 production. Copyright (c) 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.