Purpose of Review <p>Organic waste management is crucial for global sustainable development. Dark fermentation is an effective method for reutilizing organic wastes while generating hydrogen. However, some substances in organic wastes may interfere with hydrogen-producing microorganisms, thereby reducing hydrogen production. Among these substances, emerging contaminants are receiving increasing attention due to their potential risks, environmental persistence, diverse sources, and ecotoxicity, posing a potential threat to the stability and efficiency of dark fermentation. Therefore, this comprehensive review aims to discuss the impacts of emerging contaminants on hydrogen production in dark fermentation, and corresponding mechanisms and control strategies.</p> Recent Findings <p>The sources of emerging contaminants in organic wastes are summarized. The effects of emerging contaminants on dark fermentative hydrogen production are systematically and critically summarized. Most of emerging contaminants inhibit hydrogen production. The mechanisms of emerging contaminants affecting hydrogen production in dark fermentation are discussed from perspectives of microbial physiological response, community structure, and metabolic pathways. Additionally, control strategies to alleviate the inhibitory effects of emerging contaminants on dark fermentation are summarized.</p> Summary <p>This review contributes to understanding how these emerging contaminants affect microbial systems, which is essential to safeguard the metabolic efficiency and operational stability. Future research directions are proposed for dark fermentation of organic wastes containing emerging contaminants.</p>