The first step to simulating a field theory, such as QCD, on a universal quantum computer is mapping the field degrees of freedom onto those of the device. For lattice gauge theories in particular, there can be multiple available theoretical “formulations” of a given model to choose from, each with their own pros and cons. There is increasing evidence that the loop-string-hadron (LSH) formulation, originally developed for SU(2) Yang-Mills coupled to staggered fermions, can yield quantum-computational cost reductions when compared to other, more established formulations. In this talk, I will present its recent generalization to an SU(3) lattice gauge theory in 1+1 dimensions — an important milestone on the way to an LSH formulation of lattice QCD. By taking lessons from the SU(2) theory in 1+1 dimensions, we can predict that significant quantum-computational cost reductions are achievable for SU(3) by employing the new LSH formulation. (Collaborators: Saurabh Kadam & Indrakshi Raychowdhury)