TREND WATCH

A roundup of business developments spotted by other publications. How Degrading?: Archer-Daniels-Midland and North American Plastics have jointly developed EnviroGard, a line of biodegradable trash bags. Using technology acquired from a British researcher, ADM created a cornstarch-based product that will allow the bags to molder away in trash dumps in as little as two years. It is estimated that conventional plastic bags can take as long as two centuries, and photodegradable plastic, the current trend-setter, needs more sunshine than is commonly available in a landfill. HFD -- Retailing Home Furnishings

Kitchen Cartoons: Tyson Foods announced plans to join ConAgra, Hormel and Great American Food Co. in the market for quick-preparation foods for children. In April, the company will introduce Looney Tunes Meals in eight varieties aimed at children aged 4 to 10. Warner Bros. cartoon characters will dominate the packaging and will be featured in a $10-million television ad campaign. Industry watchers believe that the market for quick kiddie meals will grow to $250 million this year, more than a third the size of the adult market. Atlanta Constitution

Changing Pace: Biocontrol Technology, known for its pacemakers, will soon enter a different area of health care with a device to monitor glucose levels without drawing blood. The product has a sensor that is pressed against the wrist--an ideal technology for children and older people with brittle skin. Biocontrol expects to begin selling the monitor this summer for about $3,000. Pittsburgh Business Times

Boomer Bowl: American Recreation Centers has extended the hours at many of its 27 bowling alleys in California and Texas, some of which now operate around the clock. The company credits ever-aging baby boomers for the surge in bowling’s popularity. In addition, youth attractions such as bumper bowling (which eliminates gutter balls) are on the rise, catering to a group that grew 12% last year. Sacramento Bee